There’s a reason why ancient architecture is still celebrated as beautiful and inspiring thousands of years later. The Monumental Collection, lighting created by Munich-based artist Zeynep Boyan during her artist residency at Luminaire Authentik, brings the timeless elegance of classical design into the modern world. Inspired by ancient civilizations like the Romans, Byzantines, and Hellenists, each piece reimagines the shapes and details of historical architecture in a fresh, contemporary way, resulting in a collection of lighting that feels rooted in history yet undeniably modern.
Although she has a background in cinema, Boyan’s creative journey led her to clay, where she found ways to explore themes of identity, connection, and belonging through sculpture and design. Her work, which spans abstract forms, furniture, and functional objects, is deeply influenced by her time living in cities like Istanbul, Brussels, Montreal, and Munich. This diverse perspective, paired with her fascination for natural materials and historical artifacts, brings a thoughtful and nuanced approach to the Monumental Collection. Boyan’s work also reflects her curiosity about the interplay between the old and new, an approach that inevitably makes its presence in the new lighting series.
Each piece in the series transforms the grandeur of ancient architecture into bold, modern lighting designs. Inspired by classical columns and artifacts, the collection draws from Zeynep Boyan’s deep appreciation for cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Hand-sculpted from stoneware clay, the designs feature Boyan’s signature sculpted knobs, which add an organic, tactile quality to the otherwise architectural forms. Finished with hand-brushed glazes and brought to life through oxidation firing, these pieces highlight the beauty of imperfection, a hallmark of original, handmade artistry. Together, they make up a collection that’s a testament to the enduring power of design to connect the past with the present.
To learn more about the Monumental Collection by Zeynep Boyan for Luminaire Authentik, visit luminaireauthentik.com.
Photography courtesy of Zeynep Boyan and Luminaire Authentik.