Threaded Halo: a Suspended Symphony of Wire, Light, and Color

"Threaded Halo" is a suspended light-and-thread installation that celebrates the intersection of color, geometry, and translucency. Inspired by the forms of overlapping orbits and solar halos, this piece uses radiating colorful thread patterns stretched between concentric wire rings to create semi-transparent, floating visual elements. The rings are arranged in a balanced radial composition and embedded within a wooden shadow box frame lit with LED strips—creating a playful interplay between light, color, and negative space.

Design Philosophy

The core idea is to explore how everyday materials—wire, thread, straws, and light—can be transformed into a dynamic sculptural experience. The design emphasizes tension and transparency, where thread not only decorates but structurally connects wire rings. When backlit, the vibrant threads cast overlapping shadows, creating a mesmerizing nighttime visual. The simplicity of materials contrasts with the intricacy of composition, reflecting a modern, minimalistic yet emotionally rich aesthetic.

Draw a concept sketch of 9 irregular rings (1 central, 8 surrounding).

Scan the sketch and import it into CAD software.

Use polyline (p-line) commands to trace the ring shapes.

Smooth the curves using the spline or edit commands, resize, and print out the design to letter size.

Lay steel wire directly over the printed template.

Carefully bend and shape the wire using pliers to match the curves.

Connect the ends and reinforce the joints using small sections of plastic straw sleeves.

Select vibrant colored threads.

Between each pair of concentric rings, wrap the thread radially like spokes on a wheel.

Apply small dots of super glue at contact points to keep threads evenly spaced and under tension.

Larger units consist of 3 wire rings and 2 thread layers; smaller ones have 2 rings and 1 thread layer.

Connect all 9 ring units into a visually pleasing radial arrangement.

Suspend the rings from the top and sides of the frame using invisible or matching thread.

Attach LED light strips to the inner perimeter of the frame.

Test and adjust the LED lighting effects—color, brightness, flashing modes.

Hang the finished piece in a bedroom or gallery space where light and shadows can be appreciated.

Vision & Future Possibilities

This project is a small-scale prototype, approximately letter-sized, but it opens the door for exciting variations:

1. Larger wall pieces or suspended installations
2. 3D sculptural forms with stacked or interlocking ring arrangements
3. Interactive versions using motion sensors or music-activated lighting
4. Educational kits for teaching tension structures and visual design

"Threaded Halo" is proof that elegant, luminous creations can emerge from simple materials and thoughtful design. It blends craftsmanship with technology, geometry with emotion, and function with beauty.