We are thrilled to announce the five finalists of "Contemporary Creations": A Rug Design Competition for upper division Textile/Surface Design Program students at the Fashion Institute of Technology.
24 entries were submitted and we were fascinated by the diversity of styles (from very minimalist to very elaborate) and mediums used to express the artwork (paint on silk, sunprint and even strands of macaroni!). The competition was very tough and our jury had an incredibly difficult time making their choices.
The 1st winner is "Full Circle" by Denize Sofia Maaloe
Her idea was to bring healing and peaceful energy into the home. She grows healing herbs and plants, which inspired her to make a sun-print of sage, an herb known for it’s home blessing properties. This design will be made into a 6'x9' hand-knotted wool & silk rug.
The second winner is "Kaleidoscope" by Charlotte Rodiere
Her inspiration came from kaleidoscope effects and resulted in a bold pattern made of angular shapes and strong colors juxtaposed with neutral ground. This design will be made into a 6'x9' hand-tufted wool & silk rug.
The two rugs will be exhibited at the ICFF 2012!!! They will also become a part of the company’s Designers’ Studio Collection.
You may view the three runners-up designs and pictures from the Winners Announcement event at our Facebook page.
We have enjoyed every moment of the contest and look forward to translating these beautiful artworks into gorgeous carpets!
Pictured left to right: Stephanie Gales (4th place), Michelle Parascandolo (5th place), Carolina Mandia (3rd place), Michael Mandapati (owner of Warp & Weft), Deborah Hernandez ("Rug Design" class professor at FIT), Charlotte Rodiere (2nd place) and Denize Sofia Maaloe (1st place). © 2011 Amanda Silvana Coen