IXÉ IBI
The inspiration behind this project came about because of my heritage, concern for the environment and the need and space for Brazilian design to expand.
I am proposing to create a collection of residential furniture that appeals to the contemporary/modern Brazilian market, having middle-upper class, 30-60 age demographic as my target consumer. I will design by drawing inspiration from indigenous customs and practices, specifically their relationship with, and respect for nature. Native designs, patterns, colours and symbology will also inspire the form and aesthetics of these pieces, as will Danish design – which is a very popularsource of inspiration for Brazilian design. The goal of this collection is to establish Brazilian design in the global market by finding its innate characteristics and identity while expressing regionalism as an antidote to global homogenization. Even though the target audience is the Brazilian market, this project is also relevant to the design world and international consumers because it values the cultivation and proliferation of culture and fights the adverse effects of globalization.
Brazilian design has always been colonized design, yet currently there are efforts being made by Brazilian designers to remedy that reality and introduce to the world their interpretation of the Brazilian aesthetic. This collection is my way of finding a personal as well as national aesthetic.
I am proposing to create a collection of residential furniture that appeals to the contemporary/modern Brazilian market, having middle-upper class, 30-60 age demographic as my target consumer. I will design by drawing inspiration from indigenous customs and practices, specifically their relationship with, and respect for nature. Native designs, patterns, colours and symbology will also inspire the form and aesthetics of these pieces, as will Danish design – which is a very popularsource of inspiration for Brazilian design. The goal of this collection is to establish Brazilian design in the global market by finding its innate characteristics and identity while expressing regionalism as an antidote to global homogenization. Even though the target audience is the Brazilian market, this project is also relevant to the design world and international consumers because it values the cultivation and proliferation of culture and fights the adverse effects of globalization.
Brazilian design has always been colonized design, yet currently there are efforts being made by Brazilian designers to remedy that reality and introduce to the world their interpretation of the Brazilian aesthetic. This collection is my way of finding a personal as well as national aesthetic.
Design Objective Statement
To create a residential furniture collection that explores what contemporary Brazilian design means and how indigenous culture and ideals inform that aesthetically and sustainably.
Design Criteria
My design criteria lies in form, style, use of colour and patterns, symbology and story telling. The pieces have to demonstrate an effort to sustainably source materials to the extent possible as a current student. The designs must show thoughtful decisions in all steps of development and creation. Designs must evoke emotion to the viewer and relay a sense of story, something that is rich with culture and purpose. I will design furniture forms that may be unusual but that express behaviour and mood. This furniture is meant for a residence in the looser sense of where people live and may include interior and exterior spaces. I plan to give great emphasis to quality of craft and attention to detail, and also might explore joining techniques and forms of adornment. Accessories might be a valuable addition to the line, to help me dive into how people live and daily activities in the home. To me it is very important not to steal from the indigenous people, I don’t want to fall into cultural appropriation, I plan only to allude to their imagery and find inspiration in their customs and values. I don’t intend to make literal references to my inspiration, to be subtle is more effective – e.g. physical attributes like piercing and stretching can be translated to the furniture form. No use of existing patterns without alteration. Colour palette and wood choice will be attained by compromising between inspiration, availability and sustainability.
2017
