Light and faith have long been intertwined symbols of life, our circadian rhythms tied to the sunlight that greets us each day. Across cultures and centuries, light has signified purity, warmth, revelation, and sometimes an almost blinding transcendence—qualities drawn from the very star that holds our solar system together. It’s no surprise, then, that those considered divine on earth—prophets, saints, and other sacred figures—have so often been depicted with halos, visual echoes of heavenly bodies that suggest clarity, reverence, and the unearthly. With the Nimbus vasedesigner Ben Peng he turns this symbolism toward nature itself, placing the organic world as a guiding force and a calm source of the sacred.
As designers, we have a responsibility to create with intention. It is no longer enough to simply stamp a recycled label on plastic items – consumers and shoppers have become much more literate in the innovation of materials, sustainability and the narratives embedded in the things they bring into their homes. In turn, designers are tasked with not only creating, but also educating and inspiring through the form itself.
Here, Ben Peng reinterprets familiar iconography through a sculptural lens: a vessel carved from the silhouette of a halo, its metal ring gently extending behind the form to frame whatever it holds. Whether supporting an elaborate arrangement or a single stem, the piece transforms flowers into something quietly respectful.
Simplicity in form is quite difficult to maintain. The slight curve of the back not only centers the weight of the piece, minimizing flower accidents, but the satin finish absorbs enough light, casting soft reflections on the flowers.
It adapts as a wall object or table centerpiece, anywhere that could use the freshness of a bouquet now. A small range of organic colors let the floral hues shine and the simplistic circular geometry complements any existing office, home or event space.
Ben Peng is a Melbourne-based designer dedicated to detail procedure of design where we can beautify and enrich our lives. As many focus on the final product (which is important), he understands that the multitude of decisions that take place before the final are perceived to be the true signs of progress.
To learn more about the Nimbus Vase by Ben Peng, visit travel.benjaminpeng.com.
Photo courtesy of Ben Peng.
