Wednesday 29 May 2013

Memphis Group

The Memphis Group for me, as a designer, is something it's impossible not to have an opinion about.  It's certainly had an effect on design.  From Philippe Starck to Karl Lagerfeld.  My feelings change year to year from my first discovery in my art school library to now writing about the group. 
We all have our opinions; do we love or loathe?  

Founded by the Milanese designer and architect Ettore Sottsass, it incited designers of everyday objects - from office chairs to buildings via wallpaper and vases - to break away from clean-cut mainstream modern European design.The Memphis group drew inspiration from such movements as Art Deco And Pop Art including styles such as the 1950s 'Kitsch' and futuristic themes. The group produced and exhibited furniture and design objects, annually from 1981 until 1988. The result was a highly-acclaimed debut at the 1981 Salone del Mobile of Milan, the world's most prestigious furniture fair, where it was reported that it stole the show. 
Why? 
Taking risks, pushing boundaries, challenging the cultural market at the time....  I think they did it right. 



"Suvretta" by Sottsass 1981 




Taylors' "Airport" Cabinet 1982 
    
       


Sottsass' "Quisisana" ceiling light 1981



Read and see more at their own site Memphis Icons of Desire. 

Monday 22 April 2013

Colouring Brighton - Appendage

We have worked with Hilary from Appendage in Brighton for two years now, designing and making pieces for her unique shop. She is passionate in providing people with cutting edge UK design led and British manufactured accessory products for  home and fashion. 

Appendage has been opened for 25 years and is a fantastic boutique. It is apparent of her background and training all throughout the store. 
It is always a pleasure making these bespoke pieces for her as we too share a passion for colour and surface pattern. Clashing bold colours in our modern 60's take on classic baroque style.






Bright pastel pink teamed with cobalt and matt red in a short baroque black faceted jem necklace.







Beaded Baroque Danglers







A detail of our Bright Baroque chunky bracelet.



Neon colour pieces for Think Boutique

We loved creating some bespoke jewellery pieces for one of our clients - Think Boutique collection is an ethical online boutique and pop up shop platform hosted in Glasgow. They combine wearable styles with eye-catching one-off statement pieces. They carefully chose our wearable bright neon colours in our deco design for their collection.  



Victoria McQuillan has a great eye for design, colour, quality and an extensive knowledge in ethical fashion brands.  A lady after my own heart. 




Check out their carefully selected pieces. Link below.

Fantastic fashion images by Gillian Hayes at Dapple Photography & Think Boutique  copyright.
Product images copyright Uncommonly Beautiful.