New Artistic Timepieces from British designer Ben Rousseau
A new timepiece from British light artist and designer, Ben Rousseau has been unveiled. Created to change our experience with time and illuminate the mind.
Obsidian is the latest edition to the Tempus timepiece collection which is the culmination of over two decades of experience stimulating the senses with lighting technology, precision engineering and luxury materials.
This eye-catching kinetic artwork cleverly doubles as an illuminated timepiece, which Rousseau describes as a “21st-century take on the traditional wall clock”.
In true Rousseau style, the Tempus range brings a sense of theatre to the simple act of telling the time and is a homage to his love of sci-fi films like Blade Runner and Fifth Element.
Instead of rotating hands and traditional numbers, a futuristic clock face operates with state-of-the-art digital LEDs that illuminate three different segments: seconds, minutes and hours, in sequence to represent a 12-hour time path.
Inspired by the utilitarian stone coveted by shamans, healers and stone age spiritualists. Obsidian is formed by the quick cooling of volcanic lava in an earthly and scientific way that causes it to harden like glass, as Rousseau explains;
‘Obsidian has been around since the beginning of time and has been used in trading by the Mayans since 100 B.C., with a perceived value being higher than gold. It is also believed to act as a protective shield against negative energies and looks to relieve stress with its calming patterns of building light.
‘People worldwide incorporate obsidian into meditation and dream work for its ability to clear confusion and promote emotional well-being. These clocks have been conceived and created to serve as beacons of serenity, inviting users to pause, reflect, and find solace in the rhythm of time.’
Rousseau wants each clock in the Obsidian collection to stand as a symbol of resilience, providing a haven of positivity and tranquillity within the home or workspace. Encouraging users to appreciate being in the moment and to be at peace with oneself.
He creates each timepiece using highly skilled metal forming techniques, state-of-the-art computer-controlled laser cutting machines, and digitally controlled lighting technology. Tempus brings the art of telling the time firmly into the 21st century.
Coming soon are the Tempus Time Out zones, where the ultimate zen spaces will be created. At the centre will be an artistic timepiece that guides a breathwork and relaxation programme for the highest-quality personal experiences of pure calm.