Spotlight: Discover TAAD’s Most Inspiring Designers!

Ofri Weintraub (Cohen)
December 23, 2024
Editing: Maayan Boni
Uncategorized
Elephant In The Room by Anna Samoylova. Courtesey of Anna Samoylova.

Join me in discovering some of the finest designers at TAAD’s international showcase —each one presents a world of ideas and inspiration.

Tatiana Brodatch

A Moscow-born designer and architect, Tatiana first caught my attention through a human-shaped necklace she designed as part of her collaboration with the Ukrainian fashion brand Litkovska. This piece reflects the essence of her “Couple Figure” series, set to be showcased at the TAAD exhibition. The series features clay sculptures that explore themes of emotional intimacy. After 15 years in architecture, Tatiana shifted her focus and embarked on an artistic journey centered on relationships; crafting minimalist, faceless figures that express universal emotions. Her work resonates deeply with me—each sculpture tells a powerful story of human connection, evoking a profound sense of affinity. It’s inspiring to see how she seamlessly applies her unique fingerprint across diverse mediums.

Small scale sculpture of a naked woman laying on her side by Tatiana Brodatch presented at TAAD international showcase
Tatiana Brodatch. Courtesy of Tatiana Brodatch

Taras Yoom

A celebrated multidisciplinary artist whose work captivates audiences from various disciplines, from fashion to culture. Before transitioning to art, he pursued medical studies, where he explored creativity in a hospital environment. His medical background, combined with a deep appreciation for nature, enables him to seamlessly integrate design, art, and biophysics into his creations. Yoom’s artistic universe “Yoomoota” combines human experiences with natural structures, representing parallel worlds of body and mind. His “Long Chair” made a lasting impression on me—an exceptional piece that flawlessly combines aesthetics, functionality, and a “cool” factor, effortlessly fitting into spaces ranging from Tel Aviv tech offices to suburban homes. His designs showcase a surreal, biomorphic style that ingeniously connects science, nature, and art.

Portrait of designer Taras Yoom in his workshop surrounded by his miniature sculptures
Portrait of Taras Yoom. Courtesey of Yoomoota
Futuristic chair with blue pipe-like legs and handles, by designer Taras Yoom presented at TAAD international showcase
Long Chair by Taras Yoom. Courtesey of Yoomoota

Draga & Aurel

Founded in 2007, this multidisciplinary studio is recognized for its innovative techniques and artistic approach to materials. Pioneers in upcycled design, they’ve created distinctive furniture pieces and collaborated with prominent industry names like Wall&Deco. Their works are in high demand, gracing the homes of design-savvy individuals who appreciate their precision and quality. In 2019, they introduced their Transparency Matters collection, which explores transparency, light, and color, receiving widespread acclaim. At TAAD, they will showcase the “Agatha” coffee table from the same collection, exemplifying the perfect blend of functionality and modern aesthetics. Each table is meticulously handcrafted in their studio, demonstrating their dedication to craftsmanship and innovation.

Portrait of designers Draga & Aurel sitting on chairs of their design.
Portrait of Draga & Aurel. Photo credit: Anne Timmer, Creative: Valerie van der Werff

Michael Young

An artist renowned for his groundbreaking use of aluminum, his works emphasize the material’s beauty and versatility, while showcasing inventive design approaches. Inspired by traditional Chinese lanterns, he crafts pieces that blend aluminum and light, harmonizing East and West. Young sees the integration of technology with traditional elements as a way to preserve cultural heritage. When illuminated, his works form a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, transforming spaces and evoking awe. His creations transcend time, establishing an enduring connection with the viewer.

Vase made by a unique aluminum injection technique by designer Michael Young.
Dynasty Vase by Michael Young. Courtesey of Gallery ALL

Anna Samoylova

A multidisciplinary artist who blends various media such as painting, graphics, embroidery, textile sculpture, fabric prints, and performance art. Her work focuses on ancient pre-Christian symbolism and themes of femininity, motherhood and birth, often with bold political reflection. Her pieces resonate profound female experiences; pain, strength, and hope. She translates complex emotions into an artistic language that resonates deeply with us.

A watercolor painting of a woman with apaisly painted elephent infront of her face. She is wearing a pink top, on the background of the same paisly pattern as the elephent.
Elephant In The Room by Anna Samoylova. Courtesey of Anna Samoylova

Morigami Jin

Born in 1955, Jin is one of Japan’s acclaimed and talented bamboo artists. As a descendant  to a family of weavers, he founded his own studio, where he mentors young artists to help craft his delicate works. His exceptional artistry shines through every creation—defined by meticulous precision, subtlety, and refined beauty. Each piece resembles a silent poem, with every bamboo strand thoughtfully and gracefully woven. His unmatched skill and exquisite aesthetics never fail to leave me in awe; It’s hard not to be enchanted by a piece from his truly unique collection

Delicate woven Flower Basketby Morigami Jin, presented at TAAD international showcase
Flower Basket by Morigami Jin. Courtesey of Thomsen Gallery

Juliana Lima Vasconcellos

A Brazilian designer and architect specializing in architecture and interior design. Juliana focuses on bespoke creations, emphasizing natural materials such as stone, wood, and metal. Her work reflects an elegant and minimalist aesthetic, inspired by 20th-century designs, particularly Brazilian, French, and Nordic styles. Through refined combinations of light, colors, and textures, she crafts designs that are both functional and inherently beautiful. Her unique style masterfully conveys emotions and ideas in an inspiring way.

Detail of a bench made from solid Mahogany wood with a Jute fiber seating by designer Juliana Vasconcellos presented at TAAD international showcase
Mahog by Juliana Vasconcellos. Courtesey of Juliana Vasconcellos

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