The Stem vases by Draga & Aurel were developed through the exploration of the expressive potential of Lucite and the study of transparencies, chromatic layering, refractions and the interaction between light and matter. 

The Como-based multidisciplinary design studio originally worked with the hardy acrylic resin for several pieces in its Transparency Matters collection (a 2019 series inspired by the essential volumes of Minimalism, the retro-futuristic vision of Space Age design and the perceptual play of Optical Art). 

For the Stem vases, Draga & Aurel paired, cut and sculpted coloured sheets of Lucite to create compact surfaces, optical depth and shifting light effects. With the sculptural pieces, various chromatic elements overlap to form essential geometries that both reflect and refract light. 

From the initial prototypes, the Stem vases became a captivating series of unique interior accessories that are carefully suspended between function and sculptural presence. 

Like the stem of a flower, the vases are slender and essential elements that seem to emerge from the acrylic resin material as a natural extension of the composition. Rendered in fluorescent hues that range from acid yellow and pink to green and orange, the objects’ three-dimensionality is highlighted and generates continuous light effects, depth and perceptual variations. 

The Stem vases collection by Draga & Aurel is comprised of 32 one-of-a-kind vessels.