In Nahuatl is an Aztec language that is native to Mesoamerica who is still spoken by more than a million people in Mexico, Kauani means “flourish.” Designers Inés Quezada and Inés Llasera, co-founders of Tornasol StudioConsidered from a series of luminaires inspired by native flora in honor of the rich botanical diversity of the region.
The current series, Kauani” Emules details of endemic species, based on textures found on cacti, geometric agaves and the rhythmic corn patterns. The duo also finds inspiration in the unique seeds of Mamey and Guanabana fruit or the pigmentation of cocoa and chili peppers.
“Cacti symbolizes resilience,” say Quezada and Llasera in a statement, in which they share how the adjustments of the plants mean to extreme environments that they can withstand long droughts and high temperatures. The couple adds:
Their spines, for example, not only serve as a defense mechanism, but also condense water and create a protective layer. Their pale pigmentation, as a result of washing that isolation their tissues and their water retention possibilities, give them unique volumetric shapes. Unlike most plants, Cacti perform photosynthesis at night, so that their stomges are closed throughout the day to save water and nutrients. It is in the dark that they really ‘breathe’.
The lanterns merge natural forms of fruit and botanicals with textiles, contain knitted skins with delicate spikes, ruffles or tentacles that enter the line between representation and abstraction. Melon -like orbs and elongated forms reminiscent of seed caps are suspended or stuck on surfaces with spindly feet.
If you are in Mexico city, you can see Kauani in NOTHES Árides up to and including 15 May AGO Projects. Discover more about the designers’ websiteand follow updates about Instagram.
