The 2012 Olympics was the most highly anticipated event this year, but what drew just as much attention was the cauldron designed by Thomas Heatherwick. The design resembles a dandelion and is composed of 204 petals that represent each competing nation. The petals are attached to levered stems that pump natural gas to each of them. The stems gently rise upwards to converge into ‘one great flame of unity.’ It is to represent the peaceful coming together of the different nations for the Olympic games. A lot of meaning was put into this year’s cauldron as well as an outstanding beauty that will never be forgotten. The flames aren’t only warming the petals, but also our hearts.
Source: Design Boom
