Tomas Maier’s 15th year at Bottega Veneta coincides serendipitously with the house’s 50th anniversary. The creative director shares his thoughts on the past, present and future, in this exclusive interview with JACQUIE ANG
CRAFTSMANSHIP HAS ALWAYS been the beating heart of Bottega Veneta. From a humble artisanal goods workshop in Vicenza founded by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro in 1966 (the name “Bottega Veneta” literally means “Venetian workshop” in Italian), it has now come of age as a luxury powerhouse offering a comprehensive range spanning leather goods, ready-to-wear and accessories to watches and home furnishings.
“Heritage and tradition are inherent values of Bottega Veneta,” Tomas Maier points out. “We will always stay true to the artisanal roots of the house, a cultural heritage which fuses technique and creativity with know-how and gestures that have been passed down over time and grant our brand’s identity.”
The 59-year-old German remembers fondly the first time he met the artisans: “It was shortly after I joined. I was very moved by their incredible passion for their work, even when the company was struggling to survive.”
Things revved up after its acquisition by Kering (formerly known as Gucci Group) in February 2001. The quiet, elegant Bottega Veneta was meant to be the counterpoint to the sexy, glamourous Gucci. Tom Ford, who served as creative director of Gucci Group then, knew the power of match-making. He wasted no time approaching Maier, who had honed his craft in stealth luxe designing for some of the most illustrious names in fashion: Guy Laroche, Sonia Rykiel and Hermès. In June, Maier was appointed creative director of the brand and by September, produced a collection of bags and shoes to show for Spring/Summer 2002.
この記事は Prestige Singapore の October 2016 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は Prestige Singapore の October 2016 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
Sailing Into A Dream
Scenes from the fantasy feature Game of Thrones come to life in the otherworldly landscapes of the Arctic Circle.
Here Come The Sun Seats
Italian furniture has long held the crown for blending luxurious, sophisticated design with impeccable craftsmanship.
ABSOLUMENT FAB
France's premier fair for fine-art and antiques returns for its third edition inside its new home in the Grand Palais.
Through the Director's Lens
Filmmaker JIA ZHANGKE and his protégé RAFAEL MANUEL share their perspectives on life, cinema and their current projects.
THE CUTTING EDGE
Having long played quiet supporting roles in the gem industry, gem cutters are finally having their day in the sun. Four acclaimed independent master gem cutters share more about their love of the craft and the creation of their best pieces.
Spheres of Power
Following up on the gold- and titanium-focused Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams launch collection, the superstar now turns to pearls for a softer, but no less striking, second act.
Horological Masterpieces Reimagined
Beyond the wrist, these timekeepers transcend all traditional boundaries.
WILD IMAGINATION
Cartier's latest category-spanning Panthère de Cartier novelties showcase the endless ways in which the panther continues to inspire.
READY FOR ACTION
The latest watch to come from the celebrated Richard Mille and McLaren partnership looks set to be another trailblazing timepiece.
THE RIGHT ANGLES
Twenty-five years after the launch of its last new collection, Twenty-4, Patek Philippe introduces the Cubitus range.
