I found out today that one of my favourite designers, Tobias Wong, died on May 30th. He was only 35.
His death was found to be suicide. The New York Times report investigated Wong's history of parasomnias (sleep disorders which allow the sleeper to perform comlex tasks whilst asleep). His partner believes Wong hanged himself whilst alseep.
His work is inspiring and incredible. Heavily influenced by Dada and and Fluxus, Wong's work was intelligent and thoughtful as well as beautiful. Wallpaper magazine named him Young Desinger of the Year in 2004.
He had collaborated with many artists and designers including Commes de Garcons, Ken Courtney (Ju$t Another Rich Kid) and citizen:Citizen.
Much of his work explored the idea of luxury and consummerism. In his Indulgences Collection (with Ken Courtney) he coated mundane items and items which had been commonly used as coke spoons (McDonalds stirrer, Bic pen lid) in 18k gold.
Gold Dipped Money Clip (reads 'All I Want is More')
Gold Dipped Bic Pen Lid
Gold Dipped McDonalds Stirrer
His work with diamonds, especially his diamond rings, questions why we put value on certain materials and what they mean to us.
Hidden Diamond Ring
Reverse Diamong 'Killer ring'
He also created the Wrong Store, a pop-up 'store' in New York which never actually opened.
"I'm a man of extremes. And what's the opposite of indulgence? Denial. I'm not going for denial. I'm not that spiritual, so indulgence it is."
Tobi Wong, The H Line, 2007
Some of his most well known work:
Smoker's Mitten
Gold Leaf Capsules (intended to be consumed and digested)
Ipad Cover
Silver and Gold Light switches
Money Pad
Box Cutter (reads 'Another Notion Of Possibility)
September 11 matches
Bullet Proof Rose Brooch
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