Circles of Universal Language: a conversation with Carlo Lorenzetti
Dutch Design Week 2024: together we explore how to create meaningful connections in ever-evolving Eindhoven
The exhibition ‘Circles of Universal Language’ is presented by the municipality of Eindhoven in collaboration with Dutch Invertuals during Dutch Design Week 2024. This exhibition showcases ten designers who demonstrate the power of universal language in creating meaningful encounters. Through bi-weekly meetings, conversations, observations, and research, each designer contributes their unique perspective and approach.
We speak with Carlo Lorenzetti about his ‘Air Booster’ installation which encircles pine trees, known for capturing carbon dioxide. The installation features designs pathways, seating, and elevated access for close interaction between people and nature.
“Toxic air surrounds us, but a reverence for nature offers hope for a less polluted future.”
Carlo Lorenzetti
Carlo Lorenzetti is known for his experimental approach to object design, particularly in the realm of functional objects and furniture. His work often explores the boundaries between art and design, focusing on how objects interact with the human body and emotions. He mainly works with ceramic, metal, and glass.
Can you tell us more about your ‘Air Booster’ installation and how it aims to create meaningful encounters in Eindhoven?
Everyone—young, old, native, expat, religious, or secular—shares a common bond with nature, especially with trees. Around the tree, we find a sense of equality and collective connection. The tree brings us together. The ‘Air Booster’ project amplifies this message by creating functional space around the tree for a variety of gatherings. My design is literally centred around the pine tree, reflecting both its environmental importance and its symbolic role as a unifier.
Could you share more about your creative process, as well as the design and material choices you made?
Clay naturally lends itself to softness and rounded forms, making it ideal for leaning, sitting, and touching. Its organic shape mirrors the natural rhythms of life. The design creates spaces that are both sheltered and open, inviting people to pause, gather, or simply pass through. The ‘Air Booster’ and its materiality, exist in the fluid boundary between public and private, offering a seamless blend of intimacy and accessibility.
“The design creates spaces that are both sheltered and open, inviting people to pause, gather, or simply pass through.”
Carlo Lorenzetti
Was there a particular insight from the process that stood out to you or changed your perspective?
Everyone seems to know that the air is heavily polluted, yet many either don’t seem to care or feel powerless to make a difference, accepting it as just ‘the way it is.’ Coniferous evergreen trees, whose needles remain green year-round, are the most effective at capturing carbon from the atmosphere, maximising their CO2 absorption. I believe that a deep respect for nature is the only path to ensuring that future generations inherit a world with cleaner air than we currently live in.
Location
Strijp-S area
Ketelhuisplein
Map No. B4
Open
Sat 19 Oct 11:00 – 18:00
Sun 20 Oct 11:00 – 18:00
Mon 21 Oct 11:00 – 18:00
Tue 22 Oct 11:00 – 18:00
Wed 23 Oct 11:00 – 18:00
Thu 24 Oct 11:00 – 18:00
Fri 25 Oct 11:00 – 18:00
Sat 26 Oct 11:00 – 18:00
Sun 27 Oct 11:00 – 18:00
Access Free