Cedric Laquieze and I created the sculpture 'Throne of the Rose Fairy' for the Homo Faber 2024 Biennale: The Journey of Life. I’m very excited to share the story behind our latest creation, which is the result of a fantastic collaboration of two worlds: Cedric, a sculpture artist, and I, an award-winning floral designer.
Homo Faber is a cultural movement centered on creative artisans. Its signature projects are education programs for the next generations, an international biennial celebration, and an online guide.
The Sculpture Artist & the Floral Designer
Cedric, an Amsterdam-based artist born in Los Angeles and a graduate of the Rietveld Academy, has a knack for combining unconventional materials in a way that blurs the lines between sculpture, fashion, and design. His surrealistic approach to art is truly something to behold, and working with him has been an absolute delight.
As for me, I’m Katya Hutter, a floral designer also based in Amsterdam. My work is all about creating luxurious, artistic floral decors for private clients, weddings, events, and the fashion industry. I draw a lot of my inspiration from the natural world, aiming to craft designs that are lush, abundant, and full of surprises. Each piece I create is unique, seasonal, and infused with an artistic flair.
You would think that our playfield would be miles apart, but no. You would be surprised to see how many intertwinings there are in so many fields of design. It does not feel like stepping outside my comfort zone for a second, but rather like a combination of skills and extension of my knowledge. So, I am proud to show here how and what we have created.
The Creation Process
For 'Throne of the Rose Fairy', we wanted to create something that captures the essence of life’s journey through a blend of natural and artisanal elements. It is no coincidence that, therefore, the sculpture features the following materials:
- Preserved roses: These symbolize timeless beauty and the enduring nature of life.
- Artisanal metal: Crafted into delicate, intricate forms, representing human ingenuity and creativity.
- Pigments: Adding a splash of color and vibrancy, bringing the piece to life.
- Preserved insects: Highlighting the delicate balance and interconnectivity of all living things.
- Animal bones: A reminder of the natural cycle of life and death.
- Glass dome: Encasing the entire sculpture, providing a sense of protection, preservation, and eternity.
Homo Faber 2024: The Journey of Life is beautifully guided by the art direction of the outstanding Italian film director Luca Guadagnino and an Italian architect Nicolò Rosmarini, whose vision help shape the biennale into a celebration of contemporary craftsmanship, reflecting the Journey of Life.
A Celebration of Craftsmanship
Homo Faber 2024 is all about exploring the human experience through the lens of craftsmanship. It’s an incredible honor to be part of this event, which takes place from September 1st to 30th at Fondazione Giorgio Cini on the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore, in the heart of the Venice lagoon right opposite San Marco Square.
The biennale promises to be a global experience, showcasing inspiring objects and talented artisans from around the world.
If you’re in Venice this September, be sure to stop by and experience the 'Throne of the Rose Fairy' in person. It’s a piece that we hope will inspire and captivate, much like the journey of life itself.
More Info About Homo Faber 2024
Homo Faber is open to the public. Over 800 objects from over 400 artisans from over 50 countries will show their work during the whole month of September. For more about the biennale, visit the Homo Faber 2024 website.
Can’t wait to share more with you soon!
All the best from Katya.
PS. Feel free to visit my website Katya Hutter Floral Design for more insights into my floral designs.
