With all the controversy regarding the upcoming Olympics in Beijing, and numerous protests targeting the most recognized symbol of the games, I thought it would be a great idea to feature the torch today. The “Cloud of Promise” model was designed by Lenovo, a Chinese PC manufacturer, and was chosen over 300 other submissions. According to Lenovo, “the primary theme of the torch’s artwork is clouds, which are intimately associated with Chinese culture, and are often represented in works of Chinese architecture, drawing and painting, furniture and story-telling.” Aside from the aesthetics of the design, and underlying cultural symbology, the 2008 torch is also a technological marvel.
Yao Yingjia, Executive Director of Lenovo’s Innovation Design Centre in Beijing states that “the design team approached the torch with the same process Lenovo uses when designing personal computers. They explored the connection between the user and the torch, examining factors such as size, weight, and materials.” The positive reception of the torch has lead to Lenovo hinting at the possibility of a “Cloud of Promise” PC or notebook, which would share certain design elements. It’s truly unfortunate that China’s human rights record will overshadow the beauty and story behind this piece of art.