Wearstler’s h&m home collab & architectural revelations: a may preview
Kelly Wearstler is shaking up the design landscape with a bold new H&M Home collection and a peek at exciting developments across architecture and art.
Emerging designs & global inspiration
The collaboration showcases Wearstler’s signature maximalist aesthetic – think sculptural metal lamps, inspired by structural frameworks – set to launch this fall. Presented at Palazzo Acerbi in Milan, the Emera table lamps, a key element of the line, exemplify her approach: blending industrial detail with surprising sculptural forms.
Nina johnson’s black craft narrative
Elsewhere, Atlanta artist Robell Awake is pushing the boundaries of craft with his exploration of historical references. His current exhibition at Nina Johnson Gallery delves into the legacy of the Baltimore Fancy Chair, reimagining it with pay-phone keys and imagery of the Egyptian goddess Neith. Awake’s work—a deliberate sampling and remixing of past forms—is a powerful commentary on American design history.
A cartagena masterpiece: four seasons unveiled
The newly opened Four Seasons Cartagena is a breathtaking fusion of historic architecture and luxurious design. Spanning centuries of building – a 17th-century theater nestled within the ruins of a Franciscan cloister, a Deco-era club meticulously restored – the hotel represents a monumental undertaking, a testament to architectural cohesion and preservation. Imagine the vibrant energy of Getsemaní, the city's historic quarter, permeating every corner.
Wallpaper wonders & artistic discoveries
Beyond Wearstler, the month offers a wealth of discoveries: David Haskell’s latest Maine-inspired ceramics, exploring the tension and beauty of natural forms; Kate Berry’s opulent new Graham & Brown wallpapers, channeling the spirit of the Arts and Crafts movement; and a look at emerging talent like Dotan Appelbaum, who is meticulously crafting furniture using traditional techniques to tell stories of plant life.
A bold new vision
From Wearstler’s disruptive collaborations to the painstaking restoration of a historical landmark, May’s design scene is brimming with innovation and a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship. It’s a reminder that even in an increasingly digital world, the tactile and the narrative remain powerfully relevant.