In the world of design, where innovation and tradition often collide, Linde Freya Tangelder's Fluid Re-Collection exhibition stands out as a captivating blend of ancient craftsmanship and contemporary vision. This showcase, presented during Milan Design Week, offers a unique insight into Tangelder's artistic journey and her evolving relationship with renowned Italian brand Cassina.
The Ancient Meets the Contemporary
Tangelder's design language is characterized by a seamless fusion of 'ancient and contemporary' techniques. This exhibition, aptly titled Fluid Re-Collection, presents a versatile collection that spans her past, present, and perhaps even future works. The designer describes it as a dialogue between old and new, where art, architecture, and fashion converge to influence her creative process.
A Journey Through Tangelder's World
The exhibition features a diverse range of pieces, from gallery-worthy installations to production-ready furniture and lighting. One of the highlights is the Soft Corners pouffs, with their rounded edges, and the Wax, Stone, Light lamps, crafted from the renowned Murano glass. Tangelder's latest collection, Fluid Joinery, takes glass craftsmanship to new heights with a mushroom-shaped table and a brand-new table lamp, both pushing the boundaries of what glass can achieve in design.
The Evolution of a Designer
For Tangelder, the collaboration with Cassina has been a pivotal moment in her career. She has primarily focused on collectible pieces for galleries, but with Cassina, she has found a platform to explore furniture design on a larger scale. As the first beneficiary of Cassina's Patronage program, Tangelder has been able to evolve her artistic practice while simultaneously creating her first furniture pieces. The relationship has grown stronger over the years, and this exhibition marks a special milestone, showcasing both the artistic and industrial aspects of her work.
Unveiling the Creative Process
The exhibition space was divided by translucent curtains, creating unique object compositions. Some arrangements were typical furniture setups, while others were more abstract and sculptural. Tangelder explains that these compositions are shaped by her process-driven, sculptural approach, with the different elements interacting seamlessly. The use of semi-transparent foils, reminiscent of the material in her atelier, adds an intriguing layer, revealing fragments of her creative world.
Favorite Pieces and Future Developments
Among the many impressive pieces, Tangelder highlights the Remould series, particularly the placement of the canvas flaps and the deep green color. Other notable works include the raw-textured Wax Desk Light and the Sculpting Archetypes low chair, a hand-carved masterpiece. Additionally, early prototypes of a chair currently in development with Cassina were on display, offering a glimpse into Tangelder's future designs.
A Thoughtful Takeaway
Fluid Re-Collection is a testament to Tangelder's ability to bridge the gap between ancient craftsmanship and contemporary design. It showcases her unique artistic vision and the evolution of her practice. As we reflect on this exhibition, we are reminded of the power of collaboration and how it can propel designers to new heights, pushing the boundaries of what we thought was possible. This exhibition leaves us with a deeper appreciation for the fusion of art, architecture, and fashion, and the endless possibilities it presents.
