Paradox

The light object Paradox exists at the intersection of two eras. Formally, it refers to the classic 18th-century Maria Theresa chandelier, while the neon inscription places it within the visual language of modernity and the 20th century. The encounter between decorative tradition and a modern medium of light creates an object-based paraphrase of the Jungian concept of the shadow — the idea that every source of light inevitably defines its own darker side.

Through the object, Jakub Berdych Karpelis draws attention to the tension between a radiant image and what remains hidden beneath its surface: the contemporary culture of self-presentation, idealised images of beauty and success, and the façades constructed through social media. The more perfect and luminous the image, the more pronounced the space may become for what has been suppressed or pushed out of sight.

Here, light is not merely a symbol of beauty, knowledge, or representation. At the same time, it reveals the shadow it creates. Paradox reminds us that darkness does not necessarily emerge from places without light — it can arise precisely in the most brilliantly illuminated rooms.

Paradox can now be seen at the Riding School of Prague Castle as part of the Inventarium exhibition at the Designblok 2026 design festival.