Part 4: Jaime Hayon's New Mediterranean Baroque (2)
Part 4: Jaime Hayón's New Mediterranean Baroque (2)
Mark Gonzales transitioned from professional skateboarding to become a highly acclaimed artist.
Jaime Hayón also boasts an unconventional background, having moved from skateboarding to become a star designer.
His name became known worldwide through the Lladro presentation in January and the exhibition by Italian tile manufacturer 'Bisazza' at Milan Salone in April.
Photo: Jamandfix
From Skater to Top Designer
I first learned about him two or three years ago, around the time his designer figures were released by a Hong Kong toy manufacturer.
While I wasn't particularly interested in him back then, my fascination accelerated dramatically after visiting his solo exhibition in Rotterdam, Netherlands, last year. This was because his work deviated from existing product design.
I became convinced that his creations were entering the realm of art. For several years, Dutch designers had been gaining global attention, but Hayón was completely off the radar. The world was astonished by this designer who suddenly emerged from Spain. As evidence, he was selected as one of the top designers for 2006 by the avant-garde interior design magazine 'Wallpaper'.
His profile is likely to continue rising, as he is set to design for a certain luxury brand. I sense the influence of Design = Art subtly at play behind his success.
The 'Showtime' collection by 'BD Barcelona' is characterized by its sculptural leg forms, resulting in a contemporary product that perfectly captures the zeitgeist.
Born in Madrid, Spain, in 1974.
At Milan Salone, his giant installation for BISAZA and products for b.d garnered attention. He was also selected as one of the top designers for 2006 by 'Wallpaper' magazine.