Anna Torfs Glass Collection at Maison & Objet

This is my current favourite Glassware, it's by Czech based designer Anna Torfs. She exhibited two collections at Maison Objet, Basic and Edition. The 'Basics' collection represents the origin of Anna Torfs’ work. She starts from basic forms such as a cylinder, a sphere or a drop. These shapes are then altered using cuts, overlay of colours and other techniques. The Edition collection is a continuation of Anna’s unique approach to glass, most pieces in this collection are based on geometric shapes that undergo intense manipulation. Pronounced colours and sharp cuts are applied to create dynamic, energetic pieces. This collection is produced in editions and each piece is numbered.

All of Anna’s pieces are handmade in the Czech Republic. Herwork is infused with her wonder at how the techniques of glass blowing, cutting and sanding – which have hardly changed over the past 200 years – can lead to contemporary objects. Anna has developed new techniques together with great glass masters, bringing fresh and surprising creations to an old tradition. Each piece is made by hand, each piece is unique, each piece carries the warmth with which it is made.

www.annatorfs.com

Japan Style 2008 - In the Details at Maison & Objet

My favourite of the show was 'The Japan Style' showcased in the 'Now' design Hall 7 at Maison Objet in Paris. This collection features 17 product techniques by a Japanese designers and represent “products that blend age-old Japanese craft making techniques with the sleekness and appeal of modern design” these designs have been firmly built upon traditions and refined over many generations evolving as they pass through each generation. The products below are examples of the variety of techniques featured.

This 'Traces of Layered Ceramic' tableware collection by Aida Yusuke is made from a technique called neriage, in which slices are cut from a layered combination of several clays. This beautiful tableware is made in a kiln which is the only one in the world that has mass production capacity for ceramics made in this sophisticated Japanese neriage technique. www.yusukeaiada.co.jp

Kurikyu's Japanese wooden ware, or magewappa is made with blending and coating techniques that bring out the beautiful texture and straight grains of Akita Cedar. These lightweight items are both works of art and daily functional objects.

www.kurikyu.jp

Kanazu Sen-i's environmentally friendly bags are made using mostly plant- origin materials, which are 100%, biodegradable and do not produce hazardous gases when burned. Materials include a base fabric of polylactic corn fibres, natural cotton threads and buttons made of biodegradable plastic. The fibres are pleated or scrunched to give elasticity, allowing the bags to be folded for easy storage.

www.knaplus.com

Miami Design week - Fragiles Malin lundmark

I love these teacup lamps by Malin lundmark which were featured in the Fragiles show at design Miami.

"Fragiles is an eclectic collection of contemporary porcelain, ceramic and glass objects by a new wave of designers who are manifesting their creative visions out of fragile materials. Fragiles presented over one hundred innovative objects that expand and challenge our notion of these classical materials and traditions, simultaneously exploring a new aesthetic approach and technological boundaries. From experimental and avant-garde to evocative retro-inspired reinterpretations, these cutting-edge examples indicate how visual culture and high tech production processes are influencing and reshaping this delicate territory in pioneering ways". You can find more of the Fragiles collection at www.die-gestalten.de/fragiles