At first Patrick Laing’s Flying Skirt Light Shade hangs in a limp felt form from the ceiling, until is switched on, where upon it begins to rotate and the skirt opens out, silently spinning like a dancer’s. Whilst spinning its shape can be manipulated by touch, just like a thrown clay pot on a wheel, but does it have potential to become a playful public experience?

Commissioned through Watershed's Craft + Technology Residencies, Patrick spent January to March 2013 in residency at i-DAT, a part of Plymouth University, investigating whether smart, networked Skirts in transient spaces like airports or hotels, could enable new forms of interaction.

See Patrick's project journal below, and watch his project film:

About Patrick: Patrick’s recent practice has focussed on the exploration of material potential for narrative, often participative purposes. The result of this approach and acquired skills is a broad scale of work from jewellery, to furniture and lighting, patented industrial product, store and exhibition design. Customers can be individuals, or international brands such as Adidas. Patrick’s BA degree at the University of Brighton’s 3D Design materials course goes some way to explain his holistic attitude.

Patrick Laing and fellow residents Chloe Meineck and Heidi Hinder, were supported by Watershed's Craft + Technology Residencies, a development programme delivered in partnership with i-DAT, Autonomatic and the Crafts Council, funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation. Lasting for three months, the residencies culminated in a showcase event at Watershed on Thu 28 March 2013. Watch a film of the showcase