Scenes from Abroad

Sorry for the delay in some of these, but it’s been a busy two months!


Salone this year was quite exciting, with Kartell “owning” its place amongst the greats! The Tokujin Yoshioka exhibition at the flagship store was absolutely fantastic. Not only were Tokujin’s concepts amazing to view and even more amazing to have been produced, but the design illuminated the night.

At the fair, Kartell once again proved its power in design with showcasing its new collection all in black and white. It clearly showed how intricate the design form and manufacturing thereof is. Having double the traffic on the first day of the Salone was indicative not only of the mood of the market, but how important Kartell is to that market.

Artek took a different approach and showed the new Fukasawa shelving system at Rossana Orlandi, way off site. The simplicity of the room was a perfect setting for the system. And, I got to meet Fukasawa!

Artek also showed the film by Enzo Mari and had the maestro himself there to talk and answer questions. Although all in Italian, his “colorful” language and strong opinions came across loud and clear! It was interesting that so many named designers came to hear him speak (Tom Dixon, Konstantin Gricic, to name two). We can all learn from these masters.

After Salone, ICFF came fast and furious. This year’s fair had a completely different vibe than last years. It was buzzing! The energy and business conducted made my heart sing! I went into about 30 booths and checked to see the reaction. All positive! Not having the Japanese pavilion was a miss for some, but other than that, it was the best show in years.

Artek's booth at ICFF; Artek's master upholsterer, Aki Lehtonen completed two chairs in classic Zebra fabric!

Directly from the ICFF, I hopped a plane to Munich to view the Alessi exhibition at Die Neue Sammlung in Munich. As a part of this exhibition designed by Alessandro Mendini will come to Philadelphia in the fall, I was really excited to see the opening. And it did not disappoint. It was truly a wonderland that is so Alessi – right from its roots back in the 20’s. The first night was dinner with Alessandro Mendini and Alberto Alessi – jealous? They are true gentlemen and so very incredibly smart. The jet lag and poor treatment by Continental Airlines (did you see my FB on this?), didn’t diminish the experience one bit.

Alessandro Mendini with some of his collection for Alessi

My next trip is to NEOCON in Chicago (not abroad!)…but nonetheless exciting. New introductions from Carnegie, Humanscale and a tremendous collection by Scott Wilson for Coalesse (did you see Metropolis’s last issue?), will definitely be highlights in Chicago.


Then a much needed vacation to ….where else? Italy! Stay tuned.