Canadian design company molo exhibited during Milan Design Week at the Tom Dixon event MOST at Via Olona 6B, in the cloisters of Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia.
An exhibition of paintings by Lisa Kunit and carpets by Beate Von Harten will be on for a week from 5-12 May 2012 at Breitegasse 19 in Vienna. The show entitled ‘Red threads- from earthen to…. Paintings of Lisa Kunit meet textiles of Beate von Harten’.
The press release reads: “This gentle touching of different forms of art and creative processes finally ended up in a communication on an abstract level showing opposite working methods. The pure painting formation in the work of Lisa Kunit is based on very strong dynamic strokes of the brush, with which over-laying colours are placed on canvas in a highly concentrated process. The surfaces of abstractly put three-dimensional colour fields of a carpet, however, are separated in shiny and dull areas during spiritual work lasting for months and months thus creating thread after thread, picturesque lowlands.”
In the Netherlands, Liberation Day is annually celebrated on 5 May, to mark the end of World War II. For 2012 the Liberation Day Committee Amsterdam has invited all inhabitants of the city to have a festive meal together and for the occasion Maarten Baas has designed a unique tablecloth 780.559,with the names of all of Amsterdam’s inhabitants. The number represents the number of inhabitants of Amsterdam, and therefore also the number of names on the tablecloth. Maarten Baas comments: “Every single person is part of the city. People of all nationalities live in Amsterdam. Together, with everybody’s background, they create the community. For me, this is what freedom is about.”The table cloth, almost sixty metres in length, was on show at VENTURA LAMBRATE in Milan last week and will be used for the large celebratory meal in Dam square on 5 May.
COVER’s exhibition ‘Forza Tappetti: The Rug Revolution’ begins in Milan tomorrow night at the Galleria Giacomo Manoukian Noseda!
The following exhibitors will be part of this exciting show, which is looking fantastic!
Designer and owner of London-based Top Floor, Esti Barnes has an inimitable style all of her own, which has provided the firm with the excellent reputation it has gained since she began in 1998. Multiple award winner Barnes produces rugs with an understated exuberant style, often with an astonishingly articulated use of carved pile, which gives her designs life and depth. Top Floor’s new rug Esquire Evolution uses both carved pile and graduated colouration to create a remarkably sculptural aesthetic, subtle yet dramatic.

Esquire Evolution, Top Floor, (2.00 x 3.00m, 100% wool, cut-pile and graduating colour. Available to order in any size and shape)
The highly acclaimed, multi-award winning Esquire rug by Top Floor is now available in a dramatic new version for 2012 called Esquire Evolution, which combines colour gradation with the iconic sculpted surface of the original. In this Evolution version, Esti plays with subtle colour tones to exploit the dance of light across the crystal- inspired shapes and geometric textures of the design theme. The on-trend ‘ombre’ effect of graduating tones is as much a signature of Esti’s inspired, imitable and distinctive style as the 3D cut-pile effects embodied in this super soft 100 % wool rug.
Founded by Michael Mandapati in New York City in 2001, Warp & Weft is dedicated to providing the best quality rugs for interior designers throughout the world. The firm has established a reputation for the remarkable quality of its rugs and the aesthetic eye of its owner, who designs many of the rugs himself, resulting in rugs of unique character and texture. Understanding how to find the perfect rug for each and every space has created a design studio that few firms can match and in rugs like wool and silk Verona Ice Blue.

Verona Ice Blue, Warp & Weft, (Modern Concepts 2 Collection, 2.44 x 3.05m, Indian mulberry silk and Himalayan wool, 100 knots/inch2, handknotted in Nepal. Available in 9'x12', and in colourway Mocha, can be made to custom specs in any size, colours, materials and construction)
Warp & Weft’s newest addition to its Modern Concepts 2 Collection, Verona, takes inspiration from the works of the Arts and Crafts period, more specifically, William Morris wallpaper patterns. Oversized floral elements are reinterpreted to achieve a more contemporary look. A tweed of Himalayan wool and Indian mulberry silk gives the rug a vibrancy, depth and an elegant sheen.

Kaleidoscope by Charlotte Rodiere for Warp & Weft, (FIT student Rug Design Competition Collection, 1.83 x 2.74m, semi-worsted merino wool and twisted silk. Can be made to custom specs in any size, colours, materials and construction)
Fashion Institute of Technology student Charlotte Rodiere won the 2nd Prize in Warp & Weft’s FIT Student Rug Design Competition 2011. Rodiere’s inspiration came from the aesthetic effects of a kaleidoscope and resulted in a bold pattern made of angular shapes and strong colours juxtaposed with a neutral ground.The design has been made to show in Milan and at New York’s ICFF show in May 2012.
Zollanvari are one of the world’s biggest and most influential rug companies. Having been trading in nomadic carpets since the early 1900s the family have been instrumental in the rising global appreciation of traditional Persian nomadic weaves. Gabbehs have become the company’s trademark and Zollanvari’s outstanding examples have influenced collections worldwide. Under the stewardship of Reza Zollanvari the company continue to develop new concepts in pile and flatweave and embroidery.

Baneh Kilim, Square Collection, Zollanvari, (1.38 x 2.27m, handspun wool. Available in different sizes)
Baneh Kilims are woven into 40–50 cm wide ribbons and finally stitched together. Particular emphasis is placed on the elaboration of the weave endings. The endings show a very finely woven ornament which is also partly woven into the kilim. The wool originates from the Iranian province of Kurdistan, and is handspun and handplied. Exclusively natural vegetable colours are used for dyeing.

Madrasa, Isfahan Collection (Reload), designed by SoFar/SoNear for Zollanvari, (2.42 x 3.06m, handspun wool. Available in different colours and sizes)
The idea of Reload, by SoFar/SoNear, was to reproduce the original architecture of a classic Persian carpet, applying symbols from a different cultural background. First the structure and the symbols of a Persian carpet were interpreted using a manual gesture and then an iconic oriental pattern was replaced by a European one. The final design is reminiscent of the fascinating geometries of the Mashrabiya, the traditional oriel windows enclosed by carved wood. Reload can be assimilated to classic designs, but clearly features a more contemporary pattern.

Dots by SoFar/SoNear for Zollanvari, Isfahan Collection (Update), (1.94 x 3.10m, background in handspun wool with lime green dots pattern in handspun silk, handknotted carpet designed in Milan, Italy and made in Iran. Available in different colours and sizes)

Gloss by SoFar/SoNear for Zollanvari, Isfahan Collection (Update), (1.99 x 3.10m, background natural undyed motif in handspun wool with hot pink pattern in handspun silk, handknotted carpet designed in Milan, Italy and made in Iran. Available in different colours and sizes)
The Update rugs from the Isfahan Collection, designed by SoFar/ SoNear, Milan, revive the way in which classic designs are revised and interpreted. In this case, the stylistic values and the symbols remain true to the original but by disassembling the image into ‘dots’ the viewer is unable to immediately identify the original picture. In both designs the original image is visible but it is the structure that changes according to the distance the carpet is looked at.
For over 40 years, Werner Weber has been at the forefront of promoting the tribal weavings of Iran as art, to be considered alongside the works of some of the 20th century masters such as Joseph Albers and Mark Rothko. The clarity of colours and minimalist designs of his current flatweave collection are directly inspired by the old weavings of Iran’s Mazandaran region, of which he owns the world’s largest collection and which were the subject of his recent publication ‘Undiscovered Minimalism’ by Iran’s foremost artist Parviz Tanavoli.
The movement created by the stripes that run through every compositional element of this fine weaving typify the dynamism of the tribal inspired weavings championed by Werner Weber. The changes in volume and temperature of the stripes impart a contemporary sensibility to this kilim which belies the origin and inspiration of the design.
The German firm Theo Keller has been making interior products for over sixty years, and its carpet brand Theko is recognised throughout Europe for it versatility and variety. Through its six branded ranges, the company offers rugs in different styles and from various different weaving nations that can be used in every possible setting, from kids’ rooms through to contemporary interiors. The size of the company’s output means that great emphasis is put on innovation and experimenting with design ideas long before the rest of the industry.

Lhasa 50 by Dawa for Theko, One of a Kind Collection, (2.50 x 3.00m, hand-carded Tibetan Highland wool and handknotted silk. Limited edition of 1)
This rug’s pattern depicts the Tibetan designer Dawa’s, imagined topography of the ancient city of Lhasa in Tibet. The texture of the design is achieved though the mixing of particular knotting techniques combined with varying materials in order to achieve an attractive antique or vintage appearance.
The current international trend for overdyed and patchwork rugs, which has taken the rug market by storm in the last few years and shows no signs of abating, owes its existence to one man: Celaladdin Vardarsuyu of Istanbul-based rug company Berekethali. Trend-setting Vardarsuyu works with antique and vintage rugs to not only to breathe new life into them but also to create highly desirable contemporary carpets he calls Reformed Weavings, which are being snapped up across the globe for design- conscious interior spaces.

Sound of Silence, Reformed Weavings Collection, Berekethali, (2.51 x 3.69m, recycled wool pile. Available for order in various sizes)
The vernacular weaving traditions of Anatolia provide an endless supply of inspiration for the design team of Istanbul-based Bereket, one of the most innovative weaving ateliers in the world. This rug uses the soft wool used in old Anatolian weavings that has been replied and repurposed to create this subtle and vibrant composition.
Since 2003, Luke Irwin has carved a niche for his company vision in the high end design market in the UK with his award-winning designs. His rugs often appear in leading lifestyle and interiors magazines demonstrating the popularity and versatility of his portfolio, ranging in designs from animals and crop circles through to dissolving ikat patterns and eye-dazzling geometrics. He offers from his Chelsea gallery both individual rugs and a bespoke design service for the professional buyer or the private customer.

Ikat 8, Ikat Collection, Luke Irwin, (2.44 x 3.05m, Persian handknotted wool and silk. Each rug is handknotted to order and is available in any size or colour. The rugs can be made in wool, silk and cashmere)
London-based rug designer Luke Irwin is best known for his contemporary creations, but his recently released Ikat Collection captures the look and feel of a centuries-old tradition, crafted in wool and silk that have been coloured in the traditional tie-dye method before being handwoven.

San Marco, Luke Irwin, (1.80 x 2.89m, 100% silk. Each rug is handknotted to order and is available in any size or colour. The rugs can be made in wool, silk and cashmere)
This San Marco design is part of a brand new collection from Luke Irwin, which will debut at Decorex London in September 2012. The collection comprises a series of 100% pure silk rugs, which have an aesthetic pertaining to antique patternation and architecture. Making a merit out of the ravages of time, this design is reminiscent of a well-worn and intricate stucco work.
COME AND JOIN THE REVOLUTION!
Next week why not come to COVER’s exciting FORZA TAPPETI: THE RUG REVOLUTION Milan show, featuring Angelo.
Belgian company Angelo, founded by Fiona DeWitte 13 years ago, has earned its excellent reputation within the international rug industry with the firm’s innovative spirit, its creativity and its unique rugs. Indeed, Angelo is very active on the contemporary carpet market and the firm’s designs present a comprehensive range of handwoven, hand-tufted and handknotted rugs in a vast array of designs. DeWitte is passionate about interior decoration. She not only takes note of new trends but also allows her imagination to run free when designing.
Angelo’s Fiona DeWitte designs rugs with not just the latest trends in mind but also a large amount of imagination. The company’s new 2012 collection includes Swing, an original rug with a lot of personality. The vibrant colour and bold design is both eye-catching and highly unique.What looks like sound waves in various frequencies dramatically dominates the design in a loud bright blue, creating a very contemporary and innovative rug.
COME AND JOIN THE REVOLUTION!
We are pleased to announce that one of the 19 companies that will feature in COVER’s exciting FORZA TAPPETI: THE RUG REVOLUTION Milan show next week is London designer Deirdre Dyson.
With a showroom based on London’s exclusive Kings Road, Deirdre Dyson is one of the city’s most elite carpet designers. Her much-loved butterfly designs, including the Butterfly Collection, have become an iconic series within the UK’s design industr y. The Farfalla rug, which Dyson will be showing in Milan, is one from this important collection, an abstract and typically clear-lined interpretation of a butterfly’s wing, offering a perfectly balanced artwork for any stylish modern interior.
Dyson’s much-loved butterfly designs, including the Butterfly Collection, have become an iconic series within the UK’s carpet design history. The Farfalla rug is one from this important collection, a semi-abstract and clear-lined interpretation of a butterfly’s wing, offering a perfectly balanced artwork for any stylish modern interior. All carpets are original Deirdre Dyson designs and are made to order from a palette of over 2,000 colours using wool and silk combinations.
JOIN THE REVOLUTION!
What better way to spend a day in April than to spend it in Milan looking at great design?
One of the 19 companies that will feature in COVER’s exciting FORZA TAPPETI: THE RUG REVOLUTION show at Galleria Giacomo Manoukian Noseda in Milan next week is Hossein Rezvani.
German rug designer Hossein Rezvani appeared on the contemporary rug scene no more than two years ago but has managed to take the market by storm with his brilliant Persia Reinvented Collection and his designs which rework classic patterns into unique pieces for the floor. Rezvani’s aim to “reinterpret the old tradition of carpet weaving for the modern 21st century” has succeeded with designs such as Tabriz and Bakhtiar, two Persian rugs which give classical design a twist for the 21st century carpet market.
The two designs Rezvani will be showing are Jade Orange and Tabriz Grey.
The Jade Orange rug comes from The Design Collection, which was designed by Tina Nodes and Hossein Rezvani. This series of rugs comprises top quality original designs, ideas that have never been seen before. The carpets’ innovative and individual combinations of colour and patterns are unique and matchless.
The Persia Reinvented Collection reinterprets the classic Persian carpet completely. Ancient traditional patterns have been revised, creating a-state-of-the-art modern classic but with the woven quality of the finest Persian rugs.
COME JOIN THE REVOLUTION IN MILAN NEXT WEEK!!
One of the 19 companies that will feature in COVER’s exciting FORZA TAPPETI: THE RUG REVOLUTION show in April in Milan is Amadi Carpets.
What the West Hollywood-based Ahmadi family don’t know about producing the highest quality rugs is not worth knowing. Amadi Carpets is responsible for making some of the finest weavings being made today in Afghanistan. With sixty years of experience in the rug industry the family team manage to stay ahead of the in-crowd; the Amadi’s stunning ikat design rug collection appeared well ahead of the current ikat craze in interior design, proving that the company are not just an authority but also an innovator and trendsetter.
The Ahmadi familyunderstand well what elements leading interior designers look for in the highest quality handmade carpets by virtue of their long experience of making carpets in their native Afghanistan and through their successful retail store in Los Angeles. The company’s Ikat Collection pre-empted the worldwide trend for the Central Asian textile pattern, and the firm’s recolouring and rescaling of these design continue to set the standard for these transitional weavings that combine the best qualities of the traditional and the contemporary, not unlike the family themselves.
COME TO MILAN TO SEE AMADI CARPETS AND SO MUCH MORE!!
We are pleased to announce that one of the 19 companies that will feature in COVER’s exciting FORZA TAPPETI: THE RUG REVOLUTION show in April in Milan is Christopher Farr who will be showing two rugs.
One of the world’s first producers of contemporary design carpets, Christopher Farr and partner Matthew Bourne began the company back in 1988, when contemporary design rugs were virtually unknown. Over the years Farr has produced rugs from the designs of some of the world’s leading artists and designers, an idea that the company pioneered. The Cave Rug by Gavin Turk was recently acquired by Istanbul’s Elgiz Museum of Contemporary Art for their permanent collection, proving that a rug can be viewed as a piece of art.
Gavin Turk (born 1967) came to prominence during the 1990s as part of a group of British artists who went on to stage the important ‘Sensation’ exhibition at the Royal Academy in 1999. This rug is taken from the plaque he made based on those seen on the facades of London houses of distinguished former residents. When asked by Christopher Farr to extend his repertoire to rugs he chose this now iconic image. Edition 1/5 is in the Collection of the British Council, London, UK.
Jorge Pardo, born in Havana, Cuba in 1963, emigrated to the United States in1969. Pardo has exhibited in numerous international group exhibitions, including ‘reading room’ at Boijmans van Beuningen Museum Rotterdam in 1996, ‘Pier’ in the 1997 Skulptur Projekte in Münster, and in 1998 ’4166 sea view lane ‘at Museum of Contemporar y Art, Los Angeles.
COME AND JOIN THE REVOLUTION!
One exciting new company that will feature in COVER’s exciting FORZA TAPPETI: THE RUG REVOLUTION show in April in Milan is Bó Hamsa.
At Domotex in January 2012 Julia Gèsine Stefan launched her first stylish rug collection with established Hamburg carpet dealer Mohammad Kazem Haghnegahdar. The Bó Hamsa label unites Julia Gèsine Stefan’s bold, modern designs with traditional knotting techniques and in just three months she has carved out a distinctive signature style of her own. The bright colouration and striking forms give Stefan’s take on traditional nomadic patterns an international avant-garde voice, and the artistic hand of the young designer shines through.
Inspired by the designs from Mbutu Pygmies of the Congo and combined with techniques of the ‘Boucherite’ Berber carpets of Morocco Bó Hamsa’s Inchaallah Collection reflects company designer Julia Gèsine Stefan’s fanscination with fashion, craft and tribal textiles. The craftsmanship of the firm’s weavers in Nepal and the individuality of Stefan’s designs, plus their sustainability makes Bó Hamsa’s rugs an important addition to the market. Tibetan wool, Chinese silk, and hemp are used to give the best tactile qualities and also an added depth to the colour and finish of the rug surface.
COME AND SEE THE FABULOUS DESIGNS OF THIS NEW COMPANY AT FORZA TAPPETI IN MILAN!