For Milan this year David Trubridge Design will present a new lighting installation called 'THE BALANCE OF FREEDOM'. Last year we told the story of 'The Three Baskets of Knowledge' which, according to Maori myth, were given to mankind by the gods. This year we follow that up by illustrating the dual nature of this knowledge.

For Milan this year David Trubridge Design will present a new lighting installation called 'THE BALANCE OF FREEDOM'. Last year we told the story of 'The Three Baskets of Knowledge' which, according to Maori myth, were given to mankind by the gods. This year we follow that up by illustrating the dual nature of this knowledge.

Who hasn't stood on a cliff-top and longed to leap off, soaring effortlessly? Flight has forever been mankind's ultimate dream. That dream is both a physical escape from the bondage of gravity, and a metaphorical liberation from the body's earthly desires.

We can now fly, whether it is in a jet, a hang-glider or a squirrel suit. But has this technical achievement granted us enrichment or just adrenalin rush? We suggest that such technical advances are insufficient on their own without greater wisdom. Like Icarus, we would be carried away and fly too close to the sun, lose our wings and perish.

New Zealand used to be inhabited solely by birds – there were no mammals. In Maori mythology birds are the ‘Kaitiaki’ the original guardians. All-seeing, they glide freely over the land keeping watch. They are the intermediaries with the sky, the heavens and the gods.

We are now the guardians of our planet which is threatened by the heat of the sun. We must not lose our aspirations but use our knowledge wisely for the benefit of all. The ability to fly is not enough – it is what we do with it that matters. Borne by our wings, we can spread our knowledge for all, rather than flying off alone too high.

The installation is a series of uplifting, wing-like light forms that seem to either spiral upwards or downwards. They are designed to help the spirit soar, but also to cause reflection on our place in the world. 

Also on show will be a new project between David and sculptor Ben Pearce in the form of a table lamp. 'Luvial Lamps' are comprised of 'Little Ed' solid American Ash lampbase by Pearce and 'Sand' shade by David Trubridge, which reveals a hidden pattern when switched on.