Pin Metal Art’s Bold Debut at EMERGE: Sculpting Sustainability into Functional Art

At this year’s EMERGE showcase at Singapore Design Week curated by Suzy Anetta, Pin Metal Art stood out for its unique blend of sustainability, craftsmanship, and artistic expression. Led by Bangkok-based artist and designer Saruta “Pin” Kiatparkpoom, the brand has become a beacon of creativity by transforming industrial scrap metal into stunning, functional art pieces. Pin’s participation in EMERGE not only highlighted her innovative design approach but also showcased her commitment to sustainability and the human aspect of craftsmanship, making her work resonate on a global platform.

From Scrap to Sculpture: Pin’s Unique Design Philosophy

The story behind Pin Metal Art is as inspiring as the pieces themselves. Drawing inspiration from her family’s sliding door factory, Pin began her journey by repurposing discarded metal scraps that would otherwise be sold off for a minimal price. Rather than seeing waste, Pin saw potential in these industrial byproducts and began experimenting with how they could be transformed into functional works of art. Mirrors, chandeliers, sculptures, and wall decor all became canvases for her creativity.

“My father’s factory is focused on mass production, with little emphasis on identity or uniqueness,” Pin explains. “I wanted to change that by giving these materials new meaning, turning them into something people would not only use but also admire.”

Her designs are characterized by intricate detail and craftsmanship. Each piece is handcrafted, from the cutting and shaping of the metal to the final assembly. It’s this labor-intensive process that sets her work apart from typical factory-made decor. Every item has a personal touch, reflecting Pin’s desire to merge the mechanical precision of mass production with the expressive creativity of art.

The Human Element: Crafting with Compassion

Pin’s artistry isn’t just about transforming materials—it’s also about improving the lives of those around her. Growing up in her father’s factory, she became acutely aware of the workers who made mass production possible. “I’ve known the workers since I was a child,” Pin shares. “When I design, I think about them. I want to create a balance between the efficiency of the factory and the personal touch of the artisan, while also ensuring their work conditions are taken into account.”

This consideration is reflected in her design process. By using materials already available from the factory, Pin reduces waste and encourages a more thoughtful approach to resource management. But beyond environmental sustainability, her approach has a social element as well. Pin believes that the workers’ well-being should be integral to the design process, ensuring that her art not only beautifies homes but also has a positive impact on those involved in its creation.

“At the end of the day, design is about people,” Pin notes. “It’s about creating something meaningful for both the creator and the user.”

Sustainability Meets Art at EMERGE

Pin’s participation in EMERGE at Singapore Design Week is a defining moment for her career, where she presents her most recent works on an international stage. A highlight of her collection was a striking floor lamp that also functions as a mirror, inspired by the human form. The piece reflects both literally and figuratively, asking viewers to pause and consider their impact on the world around them. It’s a perfect example of Pin’s ability to merge functionality with deeper meaning.

“This year’s showcase is about looking at ourselves—our impact, our resources, and how we can make something meaningful from what is often overlooked,” Pin shares about her collection. For her, the process of creating art from scrap metal isn’t just a design challenge; it’s a statement on sustainability, responsibility, and the power of resourcefulness.

Having previously exhibited in Paris, Pin is no stranger to the global art scene. However, she views her participation in EMERGE as an important milestone in representing Thai craftsmanship and sustainability on a larger scale. “We, as designers, have a responsibility to use the resources of this world wisely,” Pin emphasizes. “Singapore Design Week has given me the opportunity to show how art can drive meaningful change, not just aesthetically, but environmentally as well.”

As Pin Metal Art continues to expand its reach, her commitment to sustainability and artistic identity remains unwavering. From her Bangkok workshop to international exhibitions, Pin’s work proves that design can be both functional and transformative, offering beauty that is born from the materials—and the people—that might otherwise be forgotten.

Photos from Pin Metal Art website