07 May 2009

Alessi Nuvem - Wire Sculpture at its Best

Alessi Flagship Store, New York, NY. Photo by ...Image via Wikipedia

by Axel W.

You may never have heard of the term Nuvem. It is nor more nor less than a collection of objects formed from aluminum wire, spun and squashed into any number of household items. But that description is far too plain to capture this daring concept.

Alessi spent years developing the concept. There were the usual artistic struggles, of course. But imagine trying to form vases, baskets, and more that are both economical and lovely, while being true the original inspiration. The results show that they have succeeded marvelously.

A simple table mat might seem like it wouldn't be difficult to achieve. Yet, even here the struggle was great. To be true the original artistic inspiration, while creating a useful object that will not scratch or degrade, requires real skill.

The Alessi Nuvem Wire Mat (AFC12) comes in either anodized aluminum, in its natural color or gold or blue. Each exhibits the asymmetry that makes this item distinctively different and delightful. The mat is approximately 43cm x 37 cm (17" x 14.5") at the widest points, but is far from a simple rectangle. It will let you reach the farthest point of decorative individuality.

Alessi wasn't satisfied to stop there. They created a more complex object in the form of a Wire Flower Vase (AFC13). The vase stands 10cm x 10 cm (4" x 4") wide and 17 cm (7") high. That size lends it the necessary flexibility to be used in a dozen decorating scenarios.

As an open wire frame, the vase isn't designed to hold water though it can be used as the outer shell of a glass cylinder or rectangle. Still, it is the perfect choice for artificial flowers, as a container for potpourri, or any of dozens of decorating ideas. The swirling wire design complements the natural theme of growing plants yet provides an abstract work of art at the same time.

For one of its most complex tasks, Alessi chose to use the concept in the formation of a Wire Citrus Basket (AFC11). Here, both the functional and the artistic have to work together in perfect harmony. Wire that was too weak or imbalanced would negate the ability to hold fruit. A random mish mash would have none of the aesthetic value that lies at the base of the idea.

Available in natural aluminum color, blue, or gold, this fruit basket can be used in a wide variety of color schemes. Placed as the centerpiece of your table, your decorative efforts will pay off handsomely with just a simple touch of Nuvem. Sporting the same organic pattern as the flower vase, it brings both the sense of life and the artifice of design together in perfect harmony.

The seamless blend of practical purpose and fine dcor is a hallmark of Alessi. Nowhere have they achieved that integration better than in the nuvem line. Outstanding craftsmanship has realized an artistic vision honored by becoming part of the MOMA collection in New York. Honor Alessi by making it part of yours as well.

About the Author:
Looking to buy Alessi products? Look no further! Shop for Alessi Nuvem Wire Baskets and other Alessi designer products at bestofalessi.com


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