Mechanical Beauty: Venzon Lighting opens clocks and machinery exhibition

By: Aly Dela Peña

 

A roomful of reimagined clocks and machinery made of stainless metal, glass, resin, Swarovski crystals, composite wood, and pistons greeted guests of Venzon Lighting, bespoke lighting brand and Manila FAME exhibitor, at the opening of its 12-piece exhibition at LRI Design Plaza in Makati City last November 16.

Aptly titled Engineered by Venzon, the exhibition features old and new pieces that embody the company’s precision in metal craftsmanship combined with playful takes on modern elements and patterns. While the Pampanga-based brand has carved a name here and abroad for its beautiful lighting creations, for Jackie Venzon, the company’s creative director, the exhibition is an attempt to bring Venzon Lighting beyond its usual offerings and display its fluency in art, design, and sculpture for home and decorative pieces.

 

 

Collaboration borne

Although a longtime industry player, Venzon Lighting continues to explore ways to refresh its catalog; one of which is by collaborating with local and international designers to bring in modern, tasteful creations.

Venzon Lighting exclusively represents American designer Dale Mathis and his brand of mechanical art and objects in the Philippines, Europe, and Asia. Described as someone who works with the precision of a watchmaker, Mathis invents stunning original designs and reinterpretations of prominent artworks.

 

 

 

Filipino industrial designer Callen Dela Cruz, who has previously worked with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), also co-designed various pieces with the brand’s president, Cris Venzon. One of the fruits of this collaboration is the bestselling Behalf Clock, which is available in three finishes: Gold, Gunmetal, and Gold and Gunmetal.

While the mechanical aspect of the pieces is what draws the attention of customers, the addition of Filipino elements has also been a signature of Venzon Lighting. For instance, the Nautilus clock, apart from its shell-shape frame, uses capiz shell to add a touch of Filipino heritage.

 

 

 

 

Venzon Lighting is a regular participant in international trade shows such as Maison et Objet in Paris, France and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) .

The Engineered by Venzon exhibit is open until December 2024 at the LRI Design Plaza 2/F Gallery Hall in Makati City.