Didi Ng
Pleats Vase No.18
2026
H 44 x W 38.5 x D 27.5 cm
Wood and ink
The Pleats Vase was inspired by the artist’s experiences at a summer cottage in Finland, where he became fascinated by the organic split surfaces of firewood and the way they reveal the wood’s natural fibres. Making firewood involves the same repetitive actions that produce non-repeating organic results. The artist highlights the essence of the material by emphasising the natural properties of wood. The wood grain is arranged to create a pleated texture, transforming a solid piece of wood into something light and soft, resembling fabric. The vessel appears fragile, but strong. The inner wood grain in a tree now faces outwards, revealing its intrinsic aesthetics. The entire process fosters an intangible bond between the designer and the wood. The work is uniquely crafted for Design Trust Charity Auction 2026.
About Didi Ng
Didi Ng Wing Yin is a Helsinki-based wood artist from Hong Kong whose practice bridges sculpture, furniture and craft. Working by hand, he creates unique sculptural artworks distinguished by his carving techniques. His process focuses on revealing the intrinsic value of wood, balancing the material’s natural character with intuitive craftsmanship and conceptual exploration. Guided by his concept of Naturalness, Ng allows the wood’s unique traits to shape each work while pushing new carving possibilities. Ng received a Master of Arts degree from Aalto University in Finland. His work has received international recognition, including a finalist for the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize 2025, the Rising Star of the Year Award at the Scandinavian Design Award 2024, and the Dezeen’s Emerging Designer of the Year Award 2024. A two-time recipient of Finnish arts funding, he has received grants from the Arts Promotion Centre Finland and the Finnish Cultural Foundation. His sculpture 'Pleats Vase No.11' is in the Röhsska Museum’s permanent collection. Ng has presented solo exhibitions and exhibited widely across Europe.