Rijada: Wind and Tenderness

(jiří macek) Even though Latvia does not rank among the countries traditionally known for design, visitors to Designblok and the Design Drive Meet Latvian Design exhibition will have the opportunity to see that this may well change in the future. The selected pieces, chosen by the Rijada organization, surprise the viewer with their authenticity, tenderness, originality, plus their proximity to contemporary Scandinavian design.

In fact, it is a broad set of objects, including both conceptual works and products made in industrial production. However, most of them are deeply rooted in Latvian traditions. The simple, yet tender Dogie tables designed by one of the leading figures of Rijada – Rihards Funts – probably speak for the entire collection: the simple skittle-like legs turn the table into an event, as do the fringes from the Nest hammock designed by Ieva Laurina. An ordinary hammock is transformed into a symbol of wind, unease, and dreaming. Both designs by Diane Boitmane – the Porcelain Pipes and the Folk porcelain set – are also irresistible. Porcelain teapots and cups are reminiscent of traditional milk cans and large pastures. Yet they are absolutely contemporary and almost Japanese and simple in style. The Wolf paper chair, designed by Zane Homka, enables children to have a friend, talk to him and ride on his back. Thus, thanks to the Design Drive designers, Latvia opens in front of our eyes as a country full of traditions, myths, unusual designers, and human sensitivity that cannot be ignored.

The Design Drive Meet Latvian Design exhibition, which will present the work of 16 designers from various fields of design, including jewelry, will take place at Designblok at Superstudio A7 Holešovický pivovar in the presence of the designers themselves, who will also organize a workshop for children.

www.rijada.lv
www.designblok.cz

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