Campana baskets collection unveiled at Expo 2020 Dubai

(Image credit: press)

last updated 6 October 2022

São Paulo-based designers Fernando and Humberto Campana have launched a collection of new multipurpose baskets at Expo 2020 Dubai. The Campana brothers have unveiled the new pieces at the show, which runs until 31 March 2022, as part of the Crafts Stories series curated by Samer Yamani.

The Campanas’ baskets appear to be caught in action, frozen in fluid silhouettes that lend an anthropomorphic edge to the pieces, which are inspired by the traditional forms of indigenous basketry. The brothers have returned to the wicker they have frequented in previous collections, which is here handwoven and given earthy hues of beige, black, green and brown.

Campana baskets take on anthropomorphic forms

Creating the pieces was a process that united design teams in São Paulo, Dubai and the Philippines, who drew on both natural, free-flowing shapes and the hues of Brazilian fauna and flora. The baskets, twisted into natural shapes, recalling horns and fungi, take on organic and playful forms.

‘We love the plasticity and versatility of this collection,’ says Humberto Campana. ‘The unexpected effect of the baskets’ unusual shapes gives pieces personality as if they were coming alive. It also shows the potential of widely available materials and vernacular traditions to deliver contemporary pieces that tickle our imagination.’

For Fernando Campana, being part of Expo 2020 Dubai increased the possibilities inherent in the collection by offering the opportunity to draw links between different cultures and skill sets, as well as weaving a cultural web linking Emirati artisans to the UAE’s showcase of international creations. ‘Working with Expo 2020 Dubai under the MENASA programme [highlighting Emirati crafts] was a great experience as it truly encouraged cultural exchange and best practices for sustainable design in every step of the process. We are proud to present a collection that praises indigenous traditions, sustainable natural fibres, and handcraft excellence.’

Inside of a store with pink walls and baskets

INFORMATION

Expo 2020 Dubai runs until March 31, 2022

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Hannah Silver is the Art, Culture, Watches & Jewellery Editor of Wallpaper*. Since joining in 2019, she has overseen offbeat art trends and conducted in-depth profiles, as well as writing and commissioning extensively across the worlds of culture and luxury. She enjoys travelling, visiting artists' studios and viewing exhibitions around the world, and has interviewed artists and designers including Maggi Hambling, William Kentridge, Jonathan Anderson, Chantal Joffe, Lubaina Himid, Tilda Swinton and Mickalene Thomas.