Kingston University - Design for life

A prototype light shade made of pressed paper is just one of the items on display at Tent London, one of the biggest shows at this week's London Design Festival. The shade was designed by Simon Maidment, course director for Kingston University's BA in product and furniture design, especially for the South African non-governmental organisation Wola Nani, which supports people living with HIV and Aids. More than 50 HIV-positive women are currently involved in a project led by the NGO, making bowls and other items from papier mache. By working with Kingston, the charity hopes to develop a range of products that will allow it to expand its team of craft workers and generate income for their families.