Celebrating five years of original design, Downtown Design speaks to the founder of Bil Arabi about design in five simple questions.
Noted photographer, award winning haute jewelry designer, co-founder of Design Ras Al Khor and founder of Bil Arabi, Nadine Kanso is modern Arabia’s creative ambassador to the world. Be it her calligraphy inspired precious adornments or gritty artworks depicting contemporary Middle Eastern life, her message remains constant: ‘Celebrate your Heritage’. Drawing from Nadine’s love for graphic design, collage work and a desire to present a contemporary view on what it means to be Arab in today’s world, Bil Arabi is known for its distinct aesthetic that combines precious metals and stones with stylised Arabic calligraphy. Having worked in various design-related fields along with several stints in journalism; Nadine Kanso has been recognised for her outstanding work and contribution to the design field.
Downtown Design chats with Nadine about creative inspiration, what design means to her and the brands to see at this year’s fair:
1. What does design mean to you?
Design is practical or functional art and a beautiful thinking process.
2. What is the one piece of design you cannot live without?
One piece I cannot live without would be my vintage desk from The Odd Piece- I just love it and the Bil Arabi ring that has my sons’ names.
3. Where do you find creative inspiration?
Inspiration comes from actually living; asking your mind to think and rethink, asking your eyes to look and save details that one day they will make your story and your inspiration.
4. What are you looking forward to the most at Downtown Design?
I look forward to seeing innovation and beauty in products.
5. The 5 brands that are a must see at the fair?
Five brands that are a must are Apical Reform, Minotti, L` Objet, Moroso and Baccarat
Image: Apical Reform
Image: Minotti
Image: L`Objet
Image: Moroso
Image: Baccarat
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