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An art and design exhibition that showcases how four designers explore materiality and craftsmanship through a distinct artistic expression.
Presented in a second collaboration between two art galleries, the contemporary art space rhinoceros gallery and influential design gallery Galerie kreo, the “Profili e Gesti” exhibition brings together the work of four designers: Jaime Hayon, Pierre Charpin, Jean-Baptiste Fastrez, and Chris Kabel. In their work, the designers explore materiality, artistic expression and craftsmanship through different perspectives, but the exhibition focuses on their ability to use design to shape space, alter perception, and create the suggestion of movement.
“I’m proud to collaborate once again with the ‘kreo world’ to bring the works of four exceptional designers to Rome. This second edition of our pop-up reaffirms the inseparable fusion between design and art. Through the unique perspectives/PROFILI of these artist-designers, creativity takes shape in expressive gestures/GESTI. Their work blurs boundaries, where form follows not just function, but the power of a poetic sign that mirrors both our inner and outer worlds,” says Alessia Caruso Fendi, director of rhinoceros gallery.
Spanish artist and designer Jaime Hayon chose two series for the Profili e Gesti exhibition. The Atelier Wonderland series features brightly colored ceramic vases and chandeliers that boast hand-painted faces in vibrant colors. Made from glossy white porcelain decorated with Bisazza mosaic tiles that have been cut and applied by hand, the second series comprises vases designed with stylized animals, geometric shapes, arabesque patterns, large hearts, and expressive faces.
In an another area of the gallery, designer Jean-Baptiste Fastrez presents sculptural mirrors covered in a thick corduroy material. The designs create a beautiful contrast between the soft fabric and the smooth, reflective glass while exploring concepts of fluidity and stillness. Designer Pierre Charpin explores texture, depth and balance in a series of abstract drawings with lines and forms that capture the flow of artistic gestures. Additionally, his Triangular coffee table delves into materiality and color through the use of azure and white enameled lava stone.
Finally, Rotterdam-based designer Chris Kabel displays his penchant for exploring architectural elements in his work with Wood Ring. Crafted from a single tree trunk, the circular bench features a metal ring that holds the pieces of carefully aligned timber in place, without the use of screws or adhesives.
The Profili e Gesti exhibition is on show at the rhinoceros gallery in Rome between March 21 and August 31, 2025. Photography© Alexandra de Cossette, Arnaud Maillard, Sylvie Chan-Liat, Fabrice Gousset. Images courtesy of rhinoceros gallery.
