Design Miami.Basel 2024: Trends and Most Interesting Projects / ITech content

Contents:

• Furniture by Gaetano Pesce
• Biomorphic objects and "friend things"
• Modular furniture with social functions
• Contrast of materials and new technologies
• Technocraft and craft traditions
• Author's projects and transcendental experience

Design Miami is an international art and design fair founded in 2005 by businessman and collector Craig Robinson and curator Ambra Medda. The fair serves as a satellite event of the world-famous Art Basel Miami Beach. Since 2006, the event has also been held in Basel, Switzerland, attracting a European audience. Subsequently, Design Miami exhibitions have been organized in major cities such as Shanghai and Paris, underscoring the global significance of this event in the world of design and art. Design Miami is becoming an important platform for presenting contemporary design, attracting the attention of collectors, designers, and art historians from all over the world.

In this article, design historian Alena Sokolnikova will discuss the key themes, trends, and outstanding objects of the Design Miami.Basel 2024 exhibition, which took place from June 10 to 16. We will consider how contemporary design solutions and innovations influence the perception of art and interiors, and also analyze which trends have become most popular among participants and spectators of the event.

Gaetano Pesce Furniture

The exhibition of design works by the Italian architect and artist Gaetano Pesce (1939–2024) has become the flagship project of the fair. The exposition was formed from the collections of several galleries participating in the event. Many of them also presented the master's works at their stands. For example, the central exhibits at the stand of the French Galerie Pulp were the Sick (or Sikh) cabinet (1995) and the Pratt Chair no. 7 (1984), which was awarded the prize for the best historical exhibit of the exhibition. This exhibition highlights Gaetano Pesce's influence on contemporary art and design, showcasing his unique style and craftsmanship.

The chair is the result of an experimental collaboration between Gaetano Pesce and the Institute Pratt. This project involved the creation of nine chairs, all identical in shape but varying in color. The main difference between them lies in the amount of hardener added to the polyurethane resin. Chair #1 was too soft and resembled a decorative sculpture, while Chair #9 was as hard as glass, which negatively impacted its comfort for long periods of sitting. Chair #7, on display at the exhibition, combines sufficient strength with a comfortable, resilient backrest, making it the most functional piece in the series. Gaetano Pesce viewed design as an art form and had a passion for creating figurative objects. Chair #7, in addition to its friendly, wide smile, features fourteen symbols that, in coded form, express the author's thoughts on the essence of creativity. Each of these symbols is not only a design element, but also a profound expression of Pesce's philosophy, demonstrating his unique approach to the interaction of art and functionality.

• handprint - the value of manual labor;
• cross - a symbol of religion and faith in one's work;
• eye - attention to detail;
• dots representing the Pythagorean theorem and a book - the importance of scientific knowledge and culture;
• a couple making love - the pleasure of the work process;
• grapes - the pleasure of the fruits of one's labor;
• playing cards and the "goat" gesture - the need for risk and luck;
• suitcase and labyrinth - a journey into the unknown and the transformation of ideas along the way;
• worm - exploration of past traditions;
• head - intellectual assessment of the work of others;
• bread - you can sit on a chair while eating, and the author sells it to earn money bread.

The Sick cabinet (or Sikh cabinet) was created in 1995 and contains a play on words in its name, linking the concepts of "sick cabinet" and "Sikh cabinet", referring to the traditional turban-shaped headdress. This art object was made especially for the exhibition at the Pompidou Center for Contemporary Art in Paris. The cabinet is a unique combination of artistic expression and cultural references, which makes it a significant element of contemporary art.

The cabinet is handcrafted from wood, metal, cotton gauze and resin. The front panel features two resin-filled indentations resembling "eyes," giving the cabinet a mummy-like or sarcophagus-like appearance. The cabinet door is held in place by a metal counterweight, which makes an ominous sound each time it opens. This effect creates an atmosphere of mystery and drama, and gallery representatives are happy to demonstrate it to visitors.

Biomorphic objects and "friend things"

Among the many exhibits, special attention was drawn to objects of organic forms, including exact copies of people, animals and plants, as well as abstract figures. In particular, the surrealist "Crocodile" chair (Fauteuil Crocodile, 2015) by Claude Lalanne and other zoomorphic works of art presented at the Mitterrand Gallery demonstrate the originality and creativity of contemporary designers. These unique pieces highlight the connection between art and nature and also engage viewers with their unusual form and conceptual design.

One interesting example is the grotesque mirror "Portrait Mirror" by Spanish designer Jaime Hayon and presented at the Kreo Gallery. Also worth noting is the black console table "Rizoma" (2024) with curves reminiscent of growing roots, designed by designer Abel Carcamo and presented at the Scene Ouverte Gallery. These interior items not only attract attention with their unique design, but can also become an accent in any modern space.

New York gallery Friedman Benda presented anthropomorphic objects transformed into "things-characters". The exhibition features imaginative upholstered furniture by renowned American designer Misha Kahn, as well as clay lamp sculptures by US-based Swiss artist Carmen D'Apollonio. These unique works of art combine humor with the warmth of handcrafted pieces, creating an atmosphere of coziness and originality in the interior.

Sculptural quality is a key characteristic of the design objects created by Barbora Žilinskaitė. This talented designer was born and educated in Lithuania and currently works in Belgium. The anthropomorphic forms present in her works play an important role in creating a deep emotional connection between people and objects. Zhilinskaite emphasizes the importance of the "agency" of inanimate objects, expressed in their ability to influence a person's physical and psychological state, as well as their lifestyle. Her approach to design not only attracts attention but also invites viewers to reflect on their interactions with the environment and how objects can enrich our lives.

Friedman Benda Gallery presented "Sunbather" (2023), which resembles a stylized figure of a reclining person with one leg bent at the knee. Made of concrete, this work retains a tactile texture and is painted a sunny pastel yellow. The object is not only a work of art, but can also serve as an outdoor bench, allowing you to take different poses and enjoy the fresh air.

Modular Furniture with Social Functions

Experimental modular furniture gained popularity in the late 1960s, when radical design became an integral part of trendy underground parties. Authentic examples of French experimental design from the 1960s and 1970s were presented by Galerie Meubles et Lumières, which was awarded the Design Miami award for the best booth. This furniture not only reflects the spirit of the times but also continues to inspire contemporary designers, emphasizing its relevance and versatility in interior design. The Anémone sofa (1969) by Jean-Pierre Laporte is a unique example of designer furniture that became one of the exhibition's highlights and was sold before its conclusion. This sofa is crafted from fiberglass and foam, and its upholstery is made of wool fabric. The sofa's unique shape resembles a flower, with a cylindrical pouf serving as the centerpiece and petal-shaped armchairs arranged around it. All armchairs can be used individually or combined to create a cozy, rounded lounger. The Anemone sofa not only attracts attention with its design, but also offers multifunctional solutions for modern interiors.

The French gallery Scene Ouverte presented modular seating and tables by Dutch designer Rino Clessens, inspired by Japanese ceramic traditions. For Clessens, modularity is not simply a way to make objects more interactive but also an opportunity to expand the horizons of interior ceramics, overcoming the limitations of kiln sizes. His works demonstrate a harmonious combination of aesthetics and functionality, opening up new perspectives for interior design.

The exhibition featured a bench consisting of 14 seating units, including five base modules, with a total length of almost three meters. The bench's unique design, with large oval legs and gentle curves, evokes the image of a large green caterpillar. The modules, made of porcelain stoneware, are securely connected to each other, guaranteeing the durability and stability of the structure. This bench will be an excellent element for public spaces, combining functionality with a striking visual style.

The gallery presented the works of the Finnish multidisciplinary artist Anna Pesonen, known for her functional sculptures made of Italian marble. One of her key interior objects, called "Dialogue", consists of square surfaces that, from a certain angle, create the optical illusion of an unstable seat with a single point of support. In fact, this work of art includes a second seat, mirrored relative to the first and connected to it by a common base. This approach emphasizes the interaction of forms and space, making the object not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional.

This work by the artist contains a philosophical idea about the importance of equal dialogue. The zigzag composition is reminiscent of the old "gossip girl" sofas, where two ladies in full skirts could exchange secrets while sitting at a half-turn. This association emphasizes the importance of communication and interaction, which makes the work relevant in the context of contemporary social relations.

The projects of the Brazilian-Portuguese studio Mameluca are the result of a deep analysis of the forms of social interaction and the possibilities of their transformation through design. The founders of the studio, the creative couple Nuno Franco de Sousa and Alessandra Clark, have developed a series of miniature models of their full-scale objects designed for sitting and communication. Each model name reflects its concept: “Circle of Trust,” “Meeting Halfway,” “Fusing Perspectives,” “Tribute to Friendship,” “The Virtue of Listening.” These projects illustrate how design can influence social relationships and create spaces for interaction and the exchange of ideas.

A full-scale object, "Monument to Collective Purpose," is placed in the center of the stand. (Monument To Collective Purpose, 2023) It consists of five identical triangular seats with high triangular backs, tightly adjacent to one another. As a result, each sitter is facing a different direction while remaining part of the group. This design emphasizes the equal value of different points of view and emphasizes the importance of bringing together people who enrich a common cause with their unique experiences. The monument serves as a symbol of collective responsibility and collaboration, emphasizing that a diversity of opinions and ideas is the basis for achieving a common goal.

The base of the object is made of marble, which lends monumentality and elegance to the composition. The seats are made of non-slip, soft, and warm cork, providing a high level of comfort. The contrast between marble and cork highlights the importance of diversity in the use of materials, creating a harmonious combination of style and comfort.

Contrast of Materials and New Technologies

Unexpected combinations of materials and their processing using modern technologies are the focus of several galleries. The Objects with Narratives gallery in Brussels presented a solo exhibition of the new collection of Belgian designer Ben Storms. This collection features materials such as green onyx, cast glass, and aluminum, highlighting the designer's unique style and innovative approach. The exhibition demonstrates how modern technologies can transform traditional materials into works of art, creating harmonious and aesthetically pleasing objects.

In the Crushed Console Mirrored Steel Onyx console table, curved steel creates a soft effect, while the textured onyx slab on the mirrored surface appears almost weightless. This unique contrast of materials makes the table not only functional but also a stylish element of the interior.

An example of this The "Fire Opens Stone" bench, created by renowned African-British designer and artist Samuel Ross, is a trend-setter. This piece was named the best contemporary design object at the exhibition, highlighting its uniqueness and innovative approach to multidisciplinary design. The bench attracts attention with its expressive style and original conceptual solution, reflecting contemporary trends in interior design. In his works, the artist often explores issues of cultural identity and historical memory, using various materials for experimentation. This bench is made from a slab of black African granite with a rough, untreated edge and an engraved digital code, and also incorporates fiberglass-reinforced concrete, burnt OSB boards, and a honey-milk patina, stained red steel and polyurethane. The final look of the bench is a reference to the aesthetics of brutalism and reflects the author's childhood memories of playing in the yard. Thus, the work not only demonstrates mastery of materials but also creates a profound connection between architecture and personal experience, highlighting the importance of cultural identity in contemporary society.

Technocraft and Craft Traditions

The combination of modern technology and traditional crafts continues to be at the peak of popularity. A striking example of this is the debut exhibition Craft x Tech, which was awarded the award for the best curatorial project. Curated by Maria Cristina Didero, Design Miami's new creative director, the exhibition demonstrates how innovation can seamlessly blend with art and craftsmanship to create unique works that capture the attention of collectors and contemporary design enthusiasts alike. Didero initiated collaborations between Japanese and European designers and traditional craftspeople from six regions in northern Japan. One striking example of this interaction is the wooden chest of drawers "Metropolis I" (2024), created by the Japanese-British duo Studio SWINE. This object combines the tradition of samurai chest making with the aesthetics of modernist architecture, demonstrating a unique combination of cultural elements and contemporary design.

The series of modular objects "Blossom Links" (2024) is a striking example of the work of the British by Hong Kong-based industrial designer Michael Yang. This collection features metal coffee tables and wall hangings decorated with a pattern that combines the traditional Japanese cherry blossom with modern elements. The design was created using cutting-edge 3D printing technologies, highlighting his innovative approach to interior design. This series not only attracts attention with its aesthetics, but also demonstrates the harmony between cultural heritage and modern design trends.

The Nolwa Studio stand presented its debut collection, which harmoniously combines the ideas of contemporary international designers with the skill of Indian artisans. Inspiration for this collection is drawn from the ancient Persian-Indian technique of metalworking and silver inlay, known as "bidri". This unique collection showcases not only a rich cultural heritage but also contemporary design trends, making it appealing to art and fashion lovers.

The multi-stage process was clearly illustrated using metal spheres. Surrounding them were contemporary interior objects in matte black metal, decorated with subtle geometric patterns in silver or gold. Among them, the "Drop" coffee table, with its optical pattern reminiscent of ripples spreading across water, and the large "Horizon" wall lamp stood out. These elements combine harmoniously with each other, creating a stylish and modern space.

The exhibition presents unique works by Japanese artisans of the mid-20th century. Among the exhibits, traditional paper lamps stand out, which gained particular popularity in American modernist design after World War II. These lamps not only serve as a source of light but are also a striking example of Japanese art, reflecting the sophistication and harmony of form. The exhibition invites you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Japanese heritage and appreciate the influence of these products on contemporary design.

Paper art continues to be popular among contemporary designers due to its environmental friendliness and unique creative possibilities. The Parisian gallery Downtown+ presented the works of Japanese designers who actively explore the interaction with the heritage of previous generations. This "dialogue" between modern and historical approaches to working with paper emphasizes the importance of preserving traditions and introducing innovations into design. Paper art not only inspires artists but also draws attention to sustainable practices in contemporary art.

The exhibition features the famous "Honey Pop Armchair" made of "paper honeycombs", created by Japanese designer and artist Tokujin Yoshioka in 2001. This unique chair is crafted from thin, translucent white paper folded like an accordion. The seat's final shape is determined the moment the designer sits in the chair, gently pressing the material. This piece not only demonstrates an innovative approach to design but also emphasizes the importance of interaction between human and object.

The designer sought to demonstrate how fragility can be combined with strength, creating an atmosphere of lightness. Continuing his work in this direction, he designed another unique chair, presented at the exhibition. Created in 2003, this soft and airy Pane Chair is made from fine polyester fiber molded into a form reminiscent of the bread-baking process.

The Belgian gallery Spazio Nobile presented an extensive series of works by the artist and designer from Taiwan Pao Hui Kao. The paper technique she developed while studying at the renowned Dutch Design Academy in Eindhoven combines creativity and environmental awareness. Faced with an allergy to modern art materials, Pao Hui Kao chose to utilize traditional techniques, making her work unique and environmentally friendly. Her work reflects a desire for harmony with nature, attracting the attention of connoisseurs of contemporary art and design. The designer creates thin tubes from tracing paper, soaking them in rice water, which acts as a glue and increases the strength of the material. Sometimes, the artist uses natural dyes to create uneven coloring on the tubes, then arranges them according to the shape of the future console, bench, or lamp. The wet paper wrinkles, and after drying, these unevennesses give the tubular surface of the pieces a unique texture and additional strength. This approach makes each product not only original, but also durable, which is especially important for interior items.

Author's projects and transcendental experience

The audience's attention was focused on the author's stands with unique objects that helped people take a break from everyday worries and focus on spiritual practices. These booths offered the opportunity to experience new emotional experiences without leaving the comfort of one's office or apartment.

The booth of the renowned multidisciplinary French artist Marie Piselli, who works in the style of Transcendental Expressionism, attracted much attention. At the exhibition, she presented her first digital work, the Oui Clock. This unique object, devoid of traditional timekeeping elements, offers a meditative practice of contemplation. Oui Clock allows one to focus on the quality of communication and emotional relationships, distracting one from the usual running hands and numbers. This work emphasizes the importance of the internal perception of time and creates a space for deep reflection, making it an important element of contemporary art.

The artist offers a unique perspective on the perception of time through the romantic concept: "To be with you or without you is the only way to measure time." In this statement, she places the human being at the center of temporal dimensions, which is expressed in the central placement of a stylized relief image of a round face with large eyes. This minimalist and captivating image of the artist is also presented in the form of decorative panels and jewelry crafted from stone and metal. This approach not only emphasizes an emotional connection with time but also creates an opportunity for the viewer to reflect on the meaning of presence and absence in life. The Oui watch is a unique blend of art and time, with the watch face gently rotating against a pulsating background featuring a simple floral pattern that changes colors. Each flower is handcrafted and unique, symbolizing the beauty of humanity in the unity of diversity. It is a manifesto of peace and harmony that inspires positive change. Oui watches, whose name translates as "yes" in French, fill us with optimism and faith in the future, inviting us to say "yes" to new opportunities and hopes.

Nick Tomm is an Australian artist who lives and works in Los Angeles. He is known for his large-scale hyperspectral abstract paintings and immersive projection installations. The artist's booth, illuminated in deep blue light, featured a single work, "Arch." This painting, shaped like an ancient architectural element, explores the cultural significance of the arch symbol, viewing it as a portal, a space for transition to another world, and a symbol of rebirth. Nick Tomm's works attract attention with their depth and philosophical context, making them an important element of contemporary art.

The technique used by artist Nick Tomm creates a truly magical effect through the use of color and gradient transitions. These transitions change shades depending on the viewer's distance from the painting, creating a unique visual experience. In his works, Nick uses traditional materials such as paint and complements them with special inks. He then covers the surface with glossy resin and treats it with a blowtorch, which gives the artwork a uniform glass-like shine. This technique significantly enhances visual perception and makes each piece truly unique.

Presenting his work at the collector's design exhibition, the artist emphasized its role as an interior object. He emphasized that this work of art has a significant emotional impact, which makes it an important element of a modern interior.

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