As a prominent figure in the world of contemporary design, Apiwat Chitapanya brings a fresh perspective that marries the traditions of Thai craftsmanship with modern furniture design. With his works gracing international design fairs and exhibitions, he has established a unique brand that not only pushes the boundaries of creativity but also pays homage to his cultural roots.
At this year’s EMERGE at Singapore Design Week 2024, Apiwat will showcase a remarkable new collection inspired by the Asian belief in Feng Shui and the symbolic arowana dragonfish, a creature known to bring good fortune and prosperity. The collection, featuring a large brass sculpture of the dragonfish, is a stunning blend of traditional materials and modern design.
The piece, crafted from natural brass, evokes a sense of majesty and luxury. Often associated with wealth, Apiwat pairs it with copper wiring for the fish’s gills, painted red to symbolize good luck. To add a touch of elegance, he used sterling silver for the eyes, creating a striking contrast with the golden body of the fish. Apiwat’s meticulous attention to detail and his use of high-quality materials elevate the sculpture into an object of art that embodies both beauty and meaning.
Apiwat explains that the technique used to craft the dragonfish is deeply rooted in Thai tradition. The process mirrors the methods once used to build large Buddha statues—an ancient and revered practice. By using these traditional techniques, Apiwat is able to preserve Thai craftsmanship while reinterpreting it for a modern audience.
This year marks Apiwat’s second participation in Singapore Design Week, but his work has already made waves on the international stage. He has previously showcased at Maison et Objet in Paris and Milan Design Week, two of the most prestigious design fairs in Europe. While his work is well-received in Europe, Apiwat is particularly excited about the opportunity to showcase in Asia, where he feels brass is often overlooked as a material for modern furniture.
In Apiwat’s view, EMERGE at Singapore Design Week is an important platform for sharing Thai design with a broader Asian audience. “In Europe, people appreciate brass, but here in Asia, it’s still somewhat underappreciated,” Apiwat shared. He hopes that through events like EMERGE, he can demonstrate the versatility of brass, showing that it can be used to create modern, functional art pieces while still honoring traditional methods.
Apiwat holds great admiration for Suzy Anetta, the curator behind EMERGE. He praises her meticulous eye for selecting unique works, noting how she carefully curated pieces that represent the best of Asian design. According to Apiwat, Anetta’s ability to identify standout pieces is a testament to her deep understanding of craft and design. Working with her has been an enriching experience, allowing Apiwat to present his work on a platform that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
At the heart of Apiwat Chitapanya’s work is a deep respect for traditional craftsmanship. He believes that while innovation is important, there is great value in preserving traditional techniques. This is why his designs often incorporate processes passed down for generations, such as the method of casting brass. For Apiwat, the challenge is not to replace old methods with new ones, but to find ways to blend the two in a way that feels both timeless and contemporary.
When discussing sustainability, Apiwat emphasized the inherent durability of brass. “Brass can be melted down and reused without losing its integrity,” he explained. “Even after being cast and used, it maintains the same durability as it did before. This makes it a sustainable material in its own right.” With this approach, Apiwat ensures that his designs are not only beautiful but also long-lasting and environmentally responsible.
Apiwat’s participation at EMERGE serves as a reminder that while the design world is constantly evolving, there is always room for tradition. Through his innovative use of brass and his deep respect for Thai craftsmanship, Apiwat continues to push the boundaries of modern design while staying firmly grounded in his heritage.
For those attending EMERGE this year, Apiwat Chitapanya hopes that his collection will serve as a testament to the power of tradition in contemporary design. As he continues to bridge the gap between art and functionality, his work stands as a bold statement that the past and present can coexist harmoniously, creating pieces that are both beautiful and meaningful.
Photos courtesy of Apiwat Chitapanya
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