The Rust collection made by French-born artist Ariane Prin intrigues at first sight and you need to go beyond the first few moments of appreciation of the organic aesthetic to realize why the simple pieces hold so much power in their minimalist design. They are reminiscent of ancient pots and bowls found among buried temples and centuries-old settlements, yet at the same time they have a refined look and a distinct contemporary feel.
Experimental homeware at its finest, the Rust range takes the allure of handmade products and blends it with artistic sensibility and a keen eye for great design. The result is simply beautiful. Vases, trays, pots, bowls, and boxes share the same main features and color palettes yet no two items are alike. Each product is handmade using a unique mold and a combination of reclaimed metal dust, plaster and resin. As the metal oxidizes, the finished surface boasts various colors and textures, so you can find cream, caramel, russet, and chestnut tones, as well as white, light gray and darker ash. The objects are sanded by hand to achieve perfectly smooth edges and surfaces. Lines, specks, clouds, and dunes of sand appear on the plaster material, creating one-of-a-kind works of art. Living in London, Ariane Prin has graduated from the Royal College of Art in 2011 and has exhibited since 2004, including at the prestigious Victoria and Albert Museum and at the Cité de la Mode et du Design in Paris. You can learn more about the manufacturing process or make an inquiry about the products and prices on the artist’s website. Images courtesy of Ariane Prin.