Oui, Oui: Le FD 100, the best of French Design
Author:Abigail StoneIn the interest of promoting French design around the work, VIA (Valorisation de l’Innovation dans l’Ameublement) unveiled le FD 100 on January 16th. The organization, whose name translates to “the promotion of innovation in furniture design” is responsible for carrying the torch of French design to all corners of the world
“The spirit of France does exist,” explains multi-hypenate Phillippe Starck, “and is brought together by VIA who’s brought together 100 French designers who represent the French touch in design.” Stark chalks up the je ne sais quoi of the country’s legendary mastery of design to its perfect melting pot of critical thinking, geographic crossroads and self-reflection. Whatever its origins, it’s no secret that its sheen elevates even the simplest and most basic items.
Harnessing the global interest in “Le French Design”, a jury of industy heavyweights, curators, gallery owners and well-known personalities in the international design field has singled out 100 emerging and established creators who exemplify the principles that best represent the concept of French design Judged through through projects carried out internationally over the last two years, the final tally includes Ymer & Malta, Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, Pierre Yovanovitch, Linda Pinto and, of course, Phillippe Starck. While these craftsmen and their work may be wildly different — and it’s intriguging to discover that the list includes French ex-pats and foreigners who have adopted the country as their own as well as French nationals — the common thread is the values of creativity and elegance, luxury and innovation, balance and curiosity, inheritance and daring that have long exemplied the country’s best work. Among the group is Valentin Goux of RINCK. The California based RINCK won for their table design, see above. (For the full list, click here)
Starting next month, Le FD 100 will begin a series of global programs including speaking engagements, exhibitions, design fairs and museums. For more information, click here. Long live France design!
