Luminaire continued its commitment to thought-provoking design-programming with an event celebrating the opening of its latest exhibition, “Homage to Kuramata.” On December 7 at Luminaire Lab in Miami’s Design District, over 250 guests experienced the unique design language of the late Japanese designer with a curated collection of pieces produced by Italian design brand Cappellini. Adding further context to the exhibition was a conversation with Giulio Cappellini, founder of eponymous Italian brand Cappellini, who assisted with the design of the installation.
As one of Japan’s most important designers of the 20th century, Kuramata is known for his gravity-defying designs made possible by his unique use of transparent materials such as glass, acrylics and expanded steel mesh. Kuramata’s distinct work exudes an ethereal quality that is freed by temporal boundaries, remaining as current and dynamic today as when they were when originally conceived.
The exhibition was paired with an insightful discussion led by Giulio Cappellini that began with his story explaining his first encounter with Shiro Kuramata and his history with the designer. Today Cappellini remains the only manufacturer still producing Kuramata’s designs under license.
Throughout the evening, Mr. Cappellini spoke with the crowd of design enthusiasts, sharing insight and stories of his life uncovering and promoting the work of young designers like Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, Jasper Morrison, Tom Dixon, Marc Newson and others. These designers found an encouraging mentor in Mr. Cappellini, whose early support propelled them into the spotlight.
Beyond conversing, Mr. Cappellini spent time signing copies of the exhibition catalog for guests. Designed by Cappellini in collaboration with Luminaire, the catalog detailed each piece in the exhibition and included introductions by Mr. Cappellini and Luminaire founder and CEO Nasir Kassamali.
The exhibition included iconic Kuramata designs like the Revolving Cabinet, Sofa With Arms, and pieces from his Progetti Compiuti collection. Surrounding the pieces was a scattering of red roses, communicating the essence of an homage while also hinting at the designer’s propensity to use silk roses in some of his most radical and important designs.
Luminaire was happy to celebrate the opening and share a beautiful evening with dear friends including Haworth CEO Franco Bianchi, Poltrona Frau’s CEO Dario Rinero, Casa Vogue editor-in-chief Taissa Buescu, Patricia Urquiola, Giulio Cappellini and others.
Homage To Kuramata is on show through early 2018 and is available for view Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm at Luminaire’s Lab location.
December 2017
