Botswana-based Peter Mabeo made a big impression with the furniture line Kompa that he created for Fendi at last year's Design Miami. The "efo" stool, a piece that molded the famous Fendi "F" in clay and Panga Panga wood, the "Chicara" credenza, a wave-like woven cabinet with drawers, and the Maduo Chair, which drew influence from Delfina Delettrez Fendi's jewelry designs, were among the pieces on display. Mabeo visited many parts of his own country to work with its craftspeople, combining their talents according to his own vision.
“I was immediately drawn to Peter’s considered approach to form and function, combined with materials and artisanal techniques specific to his local environment,” explains Kim Jones, Fendi’s artistic director for womenswear and couture. Mabeo made a point to document these networks of craft—and each individual artisan who touched the collection—in a publication that was presented in Miami. As Silvia Venturini Fendi, the brand’s artistic director of accessories, menswear, and kids, explains, “The work speaks not only about products but about people.” fendi.com
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