Will Richards shakes up the concept of the traditional lampshade. He incorporates epoxy glass cloth with carbon fiber and composite materials to produce one-of-a-kind shades. Each shade is made using salvage scraps from high-tech composite fabrications. Will creates a “cut and paste” collage of the recycled materials and fashions it around a mandrel, of which Will has a variety. The shade is then custom-fused in a kiln.

The ceramic bases reflect a return to Will’s potter roots acquired more than 50 years ago.

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Using a specialized clay body, each lamp is hand-built, dried, bisque, glazed, and raku-fired. This process involves rapid firing to melt the glazes, and then introduced to combustible material, receiving a carbon induction from an airtight, smoke-filled chamber.

The final assembly involves a mix-and-match session that connects the glazed tops and feet with lamp bodies based on surface and color tension. The final wiring step unites a carbon fiber riser tube and cord with solid nickel-plated brass pull chain sockets. These lamps are unique and wonderful. Each expresses a gesture and a personality designed to challenge your mood.