Local and lovely

In recent years, Israeli style has become distinctive, with many people from abroad setting their sights on the local market.

By TALI HERDEVALL
Foldigon (photo credit: Courtesy)
Foldigon
(photo credit: Courtesy)
Israeli design is making its presence felt at exhibitions in Israel and around the world, attracting attention and making an impact. The current renaissance comes after years of austerity in Israel, which did not allow for the development of design. When better times arrived, an interest in style started to develop in Israel, and many items were copied from other sources.
Today, when Israeli design schools are packed with students who want to learn the secrets of the profession and specialize in the field, there is a wide range of experienced designers with an impressive track record in Israel and abroad. We can now take pride in authentic, unique and intriguing design.
A good example of the next generation is the D-Vision group, which recently participated in the International Design Exhibition in Milan. They are now showing their exhibition, “Soft Comfort,” at Hachava Gallery in Holon until the end of August. The hothouse of designers, founded by Keter and headed by Sami Sagol, presents items based on the concept of comfort. In the work process, they focused on using innovative materials and manufacturing techniques to guarantee a unique and comfortable sitting experience, including the look of the seat.
Sometimes a piece of furniture might look soft and comfortable but may be just the opposite. For this reason, the D-Vision designers have tried to conform to conventions when it comes to comfort (like the sitting angle) and expand them to create exhibit items that invite visitors to sit down.
Another successful local designer is Tzuri Gueta, who has exhibited in museums such as Centre Pompidou in France and MOMA in New York and won the Andy Design Award.
Gueta is influenced by marine life, which he grew up with in Givat Olga.
He expresses his inspiration through silicon works, which he created using an exclusive technique. Gueta, who is a Shenkar graduate, combines silicon and fabric in a complex process that creates a new language. Gueta is now collaborating with Israeli designer Daniela Lehavi, with whom he created a line of bags that integrates silicon works and leather accessories. The Underwater Fantasy collection creates an interesting link between basic lines and a profusion of forms.
Designer Tiva Livne is gifted in a different way, taking design in new directions. Choosing to emphasize what cannot be hidden, she designed “michse,” a solution for covering the drain on the bathroom floor. Instead of the standard gray cover, Livne designed a colorful round plastic cover in one size that fits all drains. The cover comes in 48 models that include such designs as classic, ethnic, modern, marine and floral.
But some people prefer a classic style of design like that of the Hadad Brothers. They offer a contemporary trend in wedding gifts. Their silver items combine classic Judaica style with an innovative look. Giving a gift of Judaica to newlyweds is a blessing for a long and happy family life, but the design doesn’t have to be conservative. Some of the latest items combine crystal, wood, silver and gold plate.