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This series, COLLECTIBLE In-Depth, unveils the backstage of contemporary creation. Tackling various topics from personal designer processes to the position of collectible design on the global design market, COLLECTIBLE In-Depth offers different views to suit all tastes. Today we speak with ColAAb.

C: What do you think collectible design brings compared to other more massively produced pieces?

C: Collectible design infuses objects with a unique "soul," offering an entry into the art collection world. ColAAb provides contemporary visual artists a platform to extend their creativity beyond traditional fine arts, focusing on sustainability and functionality. This approach allows artists to express their visions through furniture design. Each piece, whether a unique creation or part of a limited edition of eight, exemplifies a responsible and collaborative creative process with master artisans.

C: What dialogue are you bringing this year to COLLECTIBLE?

C: ColAAb reimagines artistic expression by blending art with functionality, urging contemporary artists to explore new horizons. The synergy between artists and craftsmen results in ColAAb creations, merging artistic vision with skilled craftsmanship. These functional objects blur the lines between art and furniture, embodying the artist's approach and contemporary thought. This fusion creates connections between art and various disciplines, including craft, science, music, and design, enriching the artistic narrative.

C: How does the cultural diversity of your city influence your design choices and the narratives behind your collectible pieces?

C: Based in Paris, ColAAb thrives on the city's cultural diversity, reflected in the varied backgrounds and inspirations of its artists. Themes such as Taoism, sustainability, and the relationship to memory and time are explored. ColAAb embraces contemporary trends, from minimalism to baroque, supporting artists in expressing their deepest desires and perspectives.

C: Can you talk about the designers you present at COLLECTIBLE this year, and what makes their practice unique?

C: This year, we present:

• Morgane Tschiember's Shibari Bench: Inspired by Japanese Shibari, its minimalist design and craftsmanship transcend decor, acting as a visual anchor in Olivier Dubois's "For Gods Only."
• "The Golden Way" by Xiao Fan Ru: This coffee and side table series embodies bamboo’s elegance and resilience. Reflecting Confucian balance, it symbolizes harmony with nature and the world.
• Bump the Lamp (the Gold) by Nicolas Momein: These luminaires, inspired by childhood memories of "Bulgomme" fabric, feature bronze casting that captures intricate folds and patterns, creating organic, light-diffusing forms.

C: How did you get into collectible design? Why did you start your gallery?

C: ColAAb is unique in exclusively working with visual artists. My professional journey began in a contemporary art gallery, followed by a shift to decorative arts. This blend of experiences inspired me to create a hybrid entity that merges my passions. There was a gap in the market for an entity allowing visual artists to explore functionality, pushing their boundaries. That’s how ColAAb was born.

C: What is the relation you hold with the designers you work with?

C: Our relationships are unique and collaborative. We invite artists to preserve their universe while engaging with space, volume, and functionality. Trust is fundamental; we are privileged to work with highly recognized artists who entrust me with their visions. We reciprocate by giving them creative freedom. Each piece of furniture tells a story deeply connected to their artistic work. Artists are hands-on, often creating models, prototypes, and directly reworking materials. We select durable, noble materials, mostly of French origin. Collaboration with craftsmen is crucial, as artists often challenge traditional techniques, pushing boundaries to create extraordinary pieces.