In the vibrant world of art and design, the intermingling of diverse ideas and elements often births innovation and creativity. This notion is vividly exemplified in my fascination with collage and assemblage, where disparate components merge to form a cohesive narrative. These techniques parallel the culinary arts, where diverse ingredients come together to create a dish teeming with flavor. Similarly, artistic collaborations mirror this dynamic; they are the confluence of passions, perspectives, and skills, producing outcomes that surpass individual efforts.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Artist: Susan Holland
Collaborators: PLUCK Miami, Taste:Work:Shop
Wine Makers: Kent Humphrey, Adam Croce, Casey O’Brien
Collection: FLOW Tray Collection
Wine Brand: ITRI Wine
Inspiration: Collage and Assemblage Techniques
A striking example of this collaboration is found in PLUCK Miami’s venture with my food design studio, Taste:Work:Shop, in the creation of our FLOW tray collection. This collection reimagines antique silver butlering trays by incorporating unique materials to add both functionality and aesthetic appeal. By weaving materials that provide traction and absorb condensation, these trays are designed to combine practicality with an ethereal beauty. PLUCK brings their expertise in eco-printing to the collection, crafting linen runners dyed in rich, wine-toned colors. Each of these pieces is meticulously crafted, using the natural tannins from leaves to create one-of-a-kind patterns that echo the winemaking process—a beautiful homage to the shared experiences at a dinner table.
Eco-printing, a revered technique used within the FLOW collection, melds chemistry with nature. This method involves using the inherent tannins within plant materials to permanently dye linens, resulting in organically intricate designs. These earthy patterns not only provide visual intrigue but also emphasize the sustainable aspect of artful design. The linen runners, bearing plant imprints, draw a subtle parallel to wine-stained fabrics post-celebration and highlight the cycle of nature and creativity. Each eco-printed piece is thus a testament to the beauty that can emerge when natural elements meet human creativity in a truly sustainable fashion.
Beyond the boundaries of the FLOW tray collection, collaboration continues to spark innovation in unexpected ways. During a visit to Wine + Eggs in Los Angeles, I was captivated by the evocative labels on ITRI wine bottles. Designed as a collage of botanical and feminine motifs, these labels further inspired the merging of art and winemaking. ITRI wines, born from the collaboration of Kent Humphrey, Adam Croce, and Casey O’Brien, epitomize this synthesis. Their wines, crafted with a focus on individual tastes, are as distinct as the artwork adorning their bottles, creating a sensory experience that extends beyond the palate.
The ITRI Wine range offers two standout selections crafted to engage the senses and challenge convention. “Chapter One – Skin Contact White” provides a dynamic taste profile, with notes of candied orange, honey, and chamomile balanced by citrus accents. Similarly, “Chapter One – Chilled Red” bursts with the flavors of red fruits and spices, designed for ultimate enjoyment when served chilled. These wines embody the spirit of collaboration, merging diverse grape varieties to achieve balance, energy, and a touch of whimsy, aligning perfectly with spontaneous and laid-back dining experiences.
Lastly, the ethos of “wine for misfits” deeply resonates with my collaborative journey with Susan Holland of PLUCK. Holland’s unapologetic artistic vision continues to inspire and push realms of possibility in our joint projects. She embodies the spirit of challenging norms and exploring creative boundaries, much like the ethos of ITRI wines. This ongoing collaboration keeps redefining my understanding of art as a collage of experiences—each project an evolution of artistic exploration where innovation and tradition harmoniously coexist. Through these creative exchanges, the symbiotic relationship between art and life continually unfolds, enriching both in meaningful ways.
