Japanese designer Nanako Kume has created a pendant light named ‘Sharpener’, which transforms wood shavings into a unique lighting design. Drawing on childhood memories of pencil sharpening, Kume sought to elevate the discarded shavings into art. "From an early age, I was fascinated by the shape and transience of the shavings produced when sharpening pencils," Kume stated. She aimed to preserve their beauty by enlarging them into functional art pieces.
The project was conceived as Kume's graduation work from Musashino Art University in Tokyo and features a lampshade shaped like a pencil. A specially constructed large-scale sharpener is employed to produce various wood shavings. This machine mimics the operation of a standard pencil sharpener but allows for different wood blocks to be inserted, resulting in an array of unique shavings. The shapes of the lampshades vary according to the type of wood, creating distinct silhouettes.
The design process begins by softening wood blocks in a steamer to ensure they can be shaved into thin, flexible layers. Kume dyes these blocks in bright colors reminiscent of colored pencils before passing them through the giant sharpener, producing sturdy, bendable layers as they dry. Adjusting the angle and position of the sharpening blade is crucial to achieve the desired shavings. “Sharpener is my startup project. I plan to improve it and develop new products in the future,” Kume noted.
Kume’s approach to design reflects a blend of nostalgia and creativity. Her pendant lights, evoking childhood whimsy, not only enhance living spaces but also demonstrate meticulous craftsmanship. Each piece is singular, embodying the beauty of simplicity while showcasing the artistry involved in the process.
