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 KAMEH.

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

K: Collectible design integrates the soul of the person who made it an object. Machines can’t bring you this feeling. The production of each piece takes immense energy and emotion from me, truly a birth of love. Each piece is incredibly personal and individual, from the design, to choosing the material, sculpting it, and then painting.

C: How does your approach to contemporary collectible design reflect current cultural or societal trends?

K: We live in a world filled with imperfections and flaws. They repel us, yet at the same time, they magically draw us in. In my work, I embrace 'a lot of perfectly imperfect shapes and materials' to explore themes that matter deeply to me and society—from the complexities of the human soul to the pressing issue of global topics like wildfires.

C: How do you position your city in the global design market, what makes your city unique, trends?

K: Dubai is home for KAMEH and I myself am very content living there and being able to create. Being part of the design market development and community gives me a lot of pride. Dubai is very unique in every sense -  from architecture to the design, every culture is represented in the city. Dubai is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world and this is reflected all around us. We are at the beginning of building the future, and I am very excited to see how quickly we are moving forward.

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

K: The level of diversity in Dubai gives me the ultimate freedom, I feel boundless.  There are over 200 nationalities living together in utmost respect and peace in one place. 

I have access to starkly different angles and perspectives in one day, I consider myself privileged to have this. This has influenced my designs and the way I work. My work is a piece of me, me living in a very diverse city.

C: Can you talk about a new collection that you release for COLLECTIBLE this year?

K: We are thrilled to debut the KAMEH 0.5 Editions at the  2024 COLLECTIBLE New York. This is our 1st participation in a US design fair.

KAMEH’s latest collection is a limited series of 5 chairs. They are inspired by the John Muir quote: "Into the forest I go to lose my mind and find my soul." This powerful phrase became the guide for the KAMEH 0.5 Editions, encapsulating the essence of the collection.

The burnt aesthetic is deeply symbolic of the designer’s personal journey. “Before venturing into the forest, I often find myself burnt out, seeking renewal and inspiration. This state of being 'burnt out' mirrors the transformation and rediscovery I experience in nature.”  Each chair from KAMEH 0.5 Editions collection is meticulously hand-sculpted from ashwood, making every piece unique. They are limited to 10 pieces each.

In exploring the connection between the East and West, KAMEH envisions what a forest might look like in a desert landscape. This vision led to the final finish for the collection being achieved through burned wood. The traditional Japanese technique of Shou Sugi Ban (wood burning) was used for this collection, ensuring its longevity and timelessness.

KAMEH 0.5 Editions represent a harmonious blend of artistry, tradition, and innovation. The collection was specially made for the Collectible New York design fair, attendees can experience the collection firsthand and explore the profound journey.

C: If you were to collaborate with someone outside of the design scene, from another industry, who would you pick?

K: I love fashion and art, from the fashion industry I would love to work with LOEWE, as they appreciate collectible design and handcrafts. From the art industry, I'm a very big fan of Marina Abramovich and I hope to make something with her and for her one day.

If I were to collaborate with someone outside of the design scene, I would let the embodiment of  a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and artistic expression guide me. I love fashion and art so these are the 2 areas where I would focus. From the fashion industry, I would be thrilled to work with LOEWE. The brand’s dedication to collectible design and handcrafted excellence resonates deeply with our values at KAMEH. 

In the art world, Marina Abramović stands out as a visionary whose work has continually pushed the boundaries of what art can be. I am profoundly inspired by her spirit and the emotional depth she brings to her pieces. To have the opportunity to create something with or for Marina Abramović would be an honor and a dream. It would allow us to explore the intersection of design and performance art, creating pieces that not only function as beautiful objects but also convey profound narratives.