Featured in the Gaetano Pesce gallery during Design Miami / Art Basel 2023, "O sole mio," half lamp half clock, is an elegant art sculpture that measures and embraces the passing of time and the movement of Earth in contrast to the Sun. This monumental wall-mounted object tells time through the dynamic relationship between a motorized solar disk and a metal track.
Our collaboration with Gaetano Pesce was an opportunity to merge Oddly Good Studio's technical prowess with his renowned artistic vision. "O Sole Mio" was conceived as a unique installation, blending the realms of art and engineering to create an immersive experience. Throughout the project, we maintained a fluid dialogue with Pesce, ensuring that each design decision resonated with his creative ethos.
The project's centerpiece, a 200 cm diameter black aluminum ring, symbolized the eternal dance of day and night. The addition of a 39 cm resin sun, provided by Pesce's team, brought a dynamic element to this celestial display. Carefully calibrated warm white LEDs cast a soft glow, mimicking the natural light's ebb and flow, adding depth and intrigue to the artwork.
Our approach involved a multi-stage development process. Beginning with conceptual sketches and material selection, we explored various avenues to bring Pesce's vision to life. Prototyping was key, with initial models in wood evolving into more refined aluminum versions. Each prototype brought us closer to realizing the perfect harmony of form, movement, and light.
.gif)
This stage was a delicate balance of respecting the artistic concept while integrating functional mechanics. We focused on how each element, from the moving sun to the ambient lighting, could coalesce into a seamless, kinetic experience. The project evolved into not just a visual spectacle but a testament to the harmony achievable between art and technology.
"O Sole Mio" emerged as a testament to craftsmanship and creative vision. Its fluid motion, powered by a precision-engineered stepper motor and controlled via a microcontroller, captured the essence of time's passage. The interactive remote added a layer of user engagement, allowing viewers to alter the light's intensity and the sun's movement, making each interaction with the piece unique.
Collaborating with Gaetano Pesce was a journey that stretched our capabilities and broadened our artistic horizons. It was a learning experience in adaptability, precision, and the power of collaborative innovation. This project stands as a beacon of our studio's commitment to blending artistic creativity with technological acumen.
.png)
