Having made its debut during Black History Month, the Ursa Minor Table Light is inspired by a celestial body that has symbolized freedom and unity throughout time. It’s named after the Little Dipper, the constellation that includes the North Star, a guiding light for many slaves who escaped the south, as well as countless others throughout history. This table lamp is meant to be an extension of that, a path through darkness, a gathering point, and a sign of hope. Designed by Michael Bennett, founder of Studio Kër, for Gantri, a leader in designer-led lighting and digital manufacturing, the luminaire borrows from a rich tapestry of African art and culture to serve as a modern homage to ancestral storytelling and communal bonds.
It’s always been more than just a constellation to me – it’s meant to spark conversation and deepen our connection to each other. It’s inspired by nights under the stars, filled with stories that bridge cultures and generations.
Bennett is a former Super Bowl champion who has turned to social activism, philanthropy, and design since retiring from the NFL. In 2020, he founded his design practice, Studio Kër. Inspired by childhood and trips to his ancestral Senegal, Bennett’s focus is on spatial justice and creating expressive spaces and objects that foster connection, belonging, and tranquility.
The Ursa Minor Table Light is characterized by an asymmetrical shade that’s inspired by African architecture and earthy tones at its base. The body of the lamp is made using Gantri Plant Polymer (GPP), an opaque blend that leaves behind a smooth, matte finish, while the diffuser uses the brand’s translucent blend polymer. Ursa Minor also features a dimmer switch and a flat wall plug, all made from a durable TPE material. Available exclusively through Gantri.com, the table lamp comes in three colors: Carbon, Sedona, and Sand.
“African heritage is full of amazing art and tradition that I wanted to explore and celebrate with others,” Bennett shares. “I got glimpses of it from my grandmother while growing up in Louisiana, and ever since, I’ve been drawn to designs that capture the spirit and strength of those who came before me. Furniture is deeply narrative for me; it’s where the stories of my ancestors and my own come together in a tangible way. I love how a piece of furniture can do such a good job of telling stories that are both personal and universal.”
“Michael’s vision brings a unique narrative to design, one that is deeply rooted in heritage yet speaks to contemporary lifestyles,” says Gantri CEO Ian Yang. “This launch reinforces Gantri’s commitment to supporting designs that tell a story, resonate with people, and enhance the way we live.”
Michael Bennett
To learn more about the Ursa Minor Table Light, visit gantri.com.
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