Cross-Cultural Design

Cross-cultural design within the realm of applied and decorative arts embodies the confluence of diverse artistic traditions, material vocabularies, and design principles that transcend geographical boundaries. This category delves into the dynamic interchange of ideas, motifs, and techniques among different cultures, which has historically enriched the tapestry of furniture, textiles, ceramics, and metalworks. It reflects how artisans and designers assimilate external influences, marrying them with local craftsmanship to create innovative, culturally hybrid pieces. In today’s globalized society, cross-cultural design not only celebrates the past’s dialogues but also addresses contemporary issues like sustainability and cultural identity, pushing the decorative arts into new territories of relevance and resonance.

Vahan Khachatryan Notjustlabel profile (screenshot from website).

Armenian-born fashion designer Vahan Khachatryan uses his multicultural education and exposure to create a blend of Italian baroque and French rococo with Eastern geometric clarity. His collections, like ‘The Treasures of Armenia’, use fashion as a form of cultural diplomacy, bringing Armenian history and traditions to international audiences. His design philosophy, deeply rooted in Eastern minimalism and Western richness, reflects his experiences and unique fashion philosophy.Read More →