#Paris #France #CIGA Design #Solar Candles #Eastern Aesthetics

From Glass Pyramids to Solar Candles: Unveiling Eastern Wisdom in Paris

On September 4, 2025, the Maison&Objet fair in Villepinte, Paris, opened its doors, capturing the attention of design enthusiasts with the dazzling "Glowing Pyramid". This installation is the brainchild of Zhang Jianmin, founder of CIGA Design, in collaboration with the World Green Design Organization. Comprising 1,000 solar-powered candles, the artwork pays homage to I.M. Pei's iconic Louvre Pyramid, while also presenting a fresh and global voice for Eastern aesthetics.

The Resilient Legacy of the Louvre Pyramid

Since its inception, Pei's glass pyramid faced criticism in 1989 for purportedly disrupting the historical narrative surrounding the Louvre. Yet, it gradually grew into a cultural icon, symbolizing a modern yet ancient dialogue between form and void. Its transparent geometry embodies the Eastern concept of balance, seamlessly connecting ancient wisdom with contemporary minimalism.

Today, Zhang Jianmin continues this aesthetic conversation, focusing on elements of light, simplicity, and sustainability. The essence of this dialogue expands from mere visual appeal to encompass shared human care. The candle, a universal symbol of warmth in both Eastern and Western cultures, is reimagined here as a beacon of ecological responsibility.

A Symbol of Warmth and Environmental Stewardship

Unlike traditional candles which can be harmful to the environment, each solar candle is emission-free. Sensitive to wind, they flicker like real flames yet produce no fire or smoke. Visitors at the exhibition were even gifted these candles, embodying a message of tenderness and environmental concern. A French designer aptly remarked that the glowing candles foster a connection between cultures through shared light and warmth.

Bridging Natural Inspiration with Technological Practice

Unlike their electronic counterparts, Zhang's solar-powered candles offer the tactile sensation of genuine fire. They showcase golden hues, changing lights, and dancing flames, all powered by sunlight—avoiding the pitfalls of fire hazards and ecological damage while translating nature's inspiration into everyday functionality. This innovation brings beauty into our lives, stripped of limitations.

A Meaningful Stage for Eastern Design

Choosing Paris as the setting for this design relay holds significant meaning. It pays tribute to I.M. Pei's legacy, aligns with France’s ecological leadership, and showcases Eastern design on the global stage. From Pei’s architectural breakthroughs to Zhang's sustainable artistry, this exhibition highlighted the trust and acknowledgment of Eastern creativity, nurturing the Sino-French friendship. The gift of 1,000 solar candles illuminated Paris, serving as a gentle reminder of our shared responsibility to cherish our common home.

This article was originally published on September 5, 2025, during the Maison&Objet fair in Paris. For updates and insights, follow CIGA on Instagram @cigadesign.global and @cigalife.global.