Triangulation Series by Zhang Zhoujie

Posted on April 2, 2012 by waikit

Chinese designer Zhang Zhoujie founded his eponymous digital laboratory in 2010 after graduating from MA Industrial Design at Central Saint Martins, building on a background in traditional Chinese fine art. His main inspiration behind founding the experimental lab was to explore the latest trends towards parametric design and to investigate new digital workflows which seamlessly integrate the latest computer technology with Wu Wei. Wu Wei is one of the principles of the philosophy of Taoism. It means action less, or lack of intervention. It is the principle by which the generation methods utilised in the digital laboratory are inspired. The goal of the lab is to use these new digital workflows to turn the virtual into the real, currently through the initiation of two projects, triangulation and simulation (currently under development)

The Digital Lab operates from two locations, one in the centre of Shanghai, China, and the other in University Town, on the outskirts of the city. The laboratory is focused on exploring new digital form creation methods, combining traditional handmade techniques with the latest digital fabrication processes.

Zhoujie believes that “Process is more important than outcome, the story is more important than style and the potential is more important than Practical”.

His key project is based on the concept of ‘Spontaneity’ 自然而然. It pays respect to the logic of mathematics and objects are generated following the law of the digital environment. It is designing without anticipation. He believes that his role as a designer is to be ‘Actionless’ 无为, to interfere as little as possible and give space for imagination.  His design is honest, revealing the true properties of materials and forms. There is no painting and no pretending. In his work, he blends Chinese traditional art perspectives, western design methodology, digital engineering and handmade craftsmanship into a single project.

Only at the beginning of his idea, Zhoujie has already had tremendous international success. Since his exhibition at 100% design in London and imm D3 design talent show in Cologn, his work has been requested by collectors from around the world and featured in numerous publications including  Wallpaper*, ICON and  Vogue.

He has his own studio in Shanghai where he continues to explore eastern values, future technology and ways to combine various disciplines.

Visit the personal site of Zhang Zhoujie