LAVA LAMP EXHIBITION

Intro A lava lamp is a decorative and mesmerizing lighting fixture that consists of a transparent liquid-filled container, typically made of glass, housing a coloured, semi-viscous wax substance. The lamp operates by heating the wax with a bulb located at the base, causing it to rise, flow, and create intriguing, slow-moving patterns within the liquid. The interplay of heat and gravity creates a captivating visual display, making lava lamps popular for their relaxing and retro aesthetic appeal.

Origins The Astro lamp, credited as the inspiration for Edward Craven Walker’s creation, is linked to Donald Dunnet, an innovative engineer based in Goring-by-Sea, Sussex. The story goes that Edward Craven Walker, leader of a World War II Royal Air Force squadron and a nudist filmmaker, drew inspiration for the groovy lamp from a pub’s egg timer. Dunnet’s diverse inventions included a 1954 patent for a display device using liquid bubbles in another liquid. Despite Dunnet’s pioneering work, he did not witness his invention reach mass market, passing away before its realization.

Craven Walker’s vision and Crestworth’s expertise eventually brought the Astro lamp to fruition.

How it works?

The device featured a transparent container with non-miscible liquids As the wax-like substance heats up, it becomes less dense than the surrounding liquid. Since density affects buoyancy, the now lighter wax rises through the liquid. As the wax rises, it moves away from the heat source and cools down. As it cools, it becomes denser and starts to fall back down due to gravity.

This rising and falling cycle creates the mesmerizing lava lamp effects. The wax moves in slow, undulating patterns, creating blobs and columns that rise and fall in a continuous, rhythmic fashion. Powered by a 40w bulb for decades until the switch to halogen.

Mathmos History Mathmos is a British company with a rich history in lighting design, particularly renowned for its iconic lava lamps. The company was founded in 1963 by Edward Craven Walker, who invented the lava lamp.

Originally named Crestworth, the company introduced the Astro lamp in 1963, marking the birth of the lava lamp phenomenon.

In 1989, Crestworth was rebranded as Mathmos, inspired by the lava lamp’s connection to the 1968 cult film “Barbarella.”

Mathmos has continued to innovate in the realm of decorative lighting, expanding its product line beyond lava lamps to include various stylish and contemporary lighting solutions.

Hippie Lamps Lava lamps are often associated with the hippie movement in a design context due to their unique aesthetic and cultural symbolism. Several design elements contribute to their “hippie” vibe. Lava lamps gained popularity during the 1960s and 1970s, a period marked by counter-cultural movements such as the hippie movement. The lamps became symbolic of the rejection of mainstream values and an embrace of alternative lifestyles. Lava lamps typically feature vibrant and bold color combinations, often in hues like purple, pink, orange, and green.

These colors reflect the psychedelic art and fashion prevalent during the hippie era.

CONCEPT The exhibition aims to transport visitors into the psychedelic and enchanting world of lava lamps, showcasing their simplicity, elegance, and the unique visual experiences they offer.

The central focus of the exhibition is a colossal. This massive lava lamp serves as both an art installation and a symbol of the impact that a simple yet captivating design can have on our senses.

The ambiance created by the Lava lamp allows the visitor to relax and enjoy the soothing experience.

INSTALLATIONS The Exhibition has 2 main installations - The Giant Lava Lamp and the Wall Projections.

The main attraction is the gigantic lava lamp at the center of the wall projections. Visitors can walk around it, observing the mesmerizing flow of liquid and vibrant colors.

The exhibition walls are adorned with lava lamp-like projections that change color and shape, creating an ever-shifting visual experience.

Strategically placed interactive screens are set in the space, allowing visitors to explore detailed information about the history of lava lamps, the science behind their mesmerizing movements, and notable designs.