KIMONO  |  ORNAMENTUM. PHOTOS BY MATTEO DEI MADDALENA & ALBERTO PARISE. 2024

On the occasion of the Salone del Mobile 2024, De Castelli presents Ornamentum, Artistic perspectives on metal erosion. Ornamentum is an experimental project on the technique of erosion involving 31 different designers commissioned to produce personal graphic designs, with the aim of revealing the broad potential of this special technique, combining personal creativity and sensitivity with the technology and production process investigated by the company. ‘A constellation of marks tells the story of a hidden production process. Created through alchemy, slow movements and patience, to reveal the poetic fragility of metal’.

In this context, Draw Studio developed Kimono, a series of graphic modules with endless decorative variations. One such composition was selected and developed for Ornamentum.

The Kimono -literally thing to wear- has over time become synonymous with traditional Japanese dress. Fascinated by the evocative power of this garb, as well as by its infinite geometrically decorated variations, the Kimono has been an inspiration because of its strong dichotomy: on the one hand its humility, its simplicity and the rigour of its language, on the other hand the organicity that is revealed through the fluid folds of its drapes and the overlapping of its flaps. This collection is inspired by the delicate, fluid and perpetual motion of clothing, characterising the space with elegance and originality, without ever becoming its absolute protagonist. Its modules make it possible to obtain designs with infinite variations, creating both calm and discreet patterns and more characterful geometric motifs that contribute to marking and enriching the space.

UTAGAWA TOYOKUNI I – ‘FLOWERS’ 1811

DAVID BOWIE BY MASAYOSHI SUKITA, WATCH THAT MEN IV, 1973