TORD BOONTJE: CASCADING GARLANDS OF FANTASY — December 7, 2007 - January 31, 2008

The whimsical designs and modern materials and technology of Dutch-born designer Tord Boontje are the focus of the newest exhibit in The Design Gallery. This exhibit features Boontje-designed designs produced by U.S. manufacturer, Artecnica and includes laser-cut creations in metal, Tyvek and polyester, textiles, wall art, lighting, home decor and more.

Working on the cusp of design and craft, TORD BOONTJE, the Dutch-born, London-based product designer combines advanced technologies with artisanal techniques to create exquisite glassware, lighting and furniture. From his early projects like the tranSglass series of recycled green bottles, to ambitious recent work such as the sumptuous replica of a bough of Blossom that he created as a Swarovski crystal chandelier, Tord Boontje has sought to imbue his products with a magic and romance that transcends their function. His designs have been featured in Target stores and are also produced by U.S. manufacturer, Artecnica and Italian manufacturer, Moroso.

The Design Gallery features designs by Tord Boontje

Laser-cut metal Thinking of You vase covers with Fairy Tails greeting card on table in forground; Midsummer Light and Until Dawn Curtain displayed in background.

Tord Boontje: The Rainbow hues of the Shadow Light

This pendant halogen lamp projects multi-colored images on surrounding walls. The whimsy of Boontje's designs are highlighted here as singing birds and thoughtful squirrels perch in lofty tree branches while a curious bunny ponders a bloom.

Tord Boontje: Table Stories Dinnerware Flowing, twisting flower and petal patterns are applied to Boontje's tableware collection, called Table Stories.	Tord Boontje: Icarus Light Poetic, lightweight and immaculately white, Icarus reminds us of the human aspiration to flight: a link between us and the celestial light.

Tord Boontje: Close-up of Midsummer Light

Red/Yellow Midsummer Light featuring cascading layers of dazzling forest creatures and foliage. The recipientof multiple design awards, Midsummer Light is destined to become a design classic.

Tord Boontje: Close-up of Midsummer Light and Until Dawn Curtain

A close-up shot of the laser-cut Tyvek material used to create the white Midsummer Light. Red Until Dawncurtain in background

Tord Boontje: Close-up of Until Dawn Curtain

A close-up shot of the laser-cut Tyvek material used to create the red Until Dawn Curtain. The Elaborate flora-and-fauna panels play with light, creating intriguing shadows and textures in any environment.