Obokeng MOKOTONG

My collection is meant to do two things: incorporate mechanics into then designs while also creating a range of simpler accompanying pieces that are more accessible to the general public.

With the exploration of mechanics, I looked at the six simple machines for inspiration: the pulley, wedge, screw, wheel & axle, fulcrum and incline plane. The latter are the machines that the human race has discovered and harnessed and used to propel us forward and a society.

There is also the consideration to make the pieces approachable and marketable and to create pieces that people would be willing to wear on a regular basis. My concept pieces are beautiful and amusing to interact with, but are not necessarily fit for everyday wear. Similar to how the fashion industry will fill runway shows with outrageous pieces as a way to sell their concepts to the audience and build interest in the commercial pieces that will actually be sold by the brands.

My metalwork often has a very simplistic look to allow myself to focus more on how a piece moves and incorporates complex mechanics. This also gives me the ability to communicate more effectively with the audience through the use of symbolism, allowing it to take centre stage.