Little Sun is a product developed by artist Olafur Eliasson and engineer Frederik Ottesen. The video lays it out better than I can, but effectively, they have created a beautiful, functional, and affordable light source to replace the dangerous and unhealthy kerosine lamps that many people in developing nations rely on. In a TOMS-like business model, they’re offering it for sale at a reasonable price in the states — $25 — so that they can release it for much less in third world countries.
I love the idea of an art object produced with love and given as a gift to those in need.
(Via Wolff Olins.)