I love Thailand and Thai people. Over the past 10 years I have visited Thailand nearly as many times, having been invited by the Department of Export Promotion to give trend seminars. At the September Maison & Objet, I ran into two of my contacts from the DEP in Thailand who are here with five young design talents as part of the exhibit “Talents à la Carte in Hall 5B.
These people worked hard to be chosen for this Paris show. They began as part of a larger pool of individuals and companies that was ultimately narrowed down to six lucky men and women.
Kachama K. Perez studied at fashion school in Tokyo and now designs fabrics inspired by the mountain tribes near her home in Chiangmai in the North of Thailand. Her renditions speak to both tradition and modernity. The colors are great and the fabrics are cotton and silk.
Singh Intrachooto is an architect and interior designer. He drew on both of these passions to create seating made from wood. The angular forms are breathtaking.
Viporn Thitivongse was a graduate in jewelry design who believes that jewels are meant to not only adorn those who wear them, but also to elevate them spiritually. This philosophy comes through in her line.
Korakot Aromdee’s items are inspired by weaving techniques learned from his family of fishermen. Baskets, chairs and light fixtures are all open to new looks using his artistic style.
Saowaluk Korsakwattana’s chair was what caught my eye first. It looks like a crochet sling on a metal frame. Very delicate! Very lovely. This young woman works in natural fibers and loose weaves to create her other items as well.
Trimode Studio represents a trio of artisans: a creator of objects, a designer of jewelry and an interior designer. They fuse their talents together to offer concepts and new shapes that draw inspiration from Thai culture. My favorite piece is an angular fiberglass chair.