Kim Nip is humble. In each of her projects, the designer and interior designer performs what she refers to as “design acupuncture,” the idea that the essential elements we need to maintain beauty and balance in our homes – and ourselves – are right in front of us, but simply need to be rearranged.
It’s no surprise, then, that when I reached out to her for what she has to offer this year, she pointed to five traditional elements—fire, earth, metal, water, and wood—and two basic needs—air and cloth—as ways to spread love, joy, and balance this holiday season.
“the fire The element expresses itself as joy and manifests in us as love, laughter, and enthusiasm. It gives meaning to our relationships with others and allows us to express ourselves more fully. Beautifully scented incense cleans the air and offers a fresh perspective.”
An assortment of fine, authentic Japanese incense that lets you try 3 different types of traditional Japanese woods that symbolize Japan. Allow yourself to be transported into the heart of a Japanese forest and enjoy the wonderful scenery and the peace it brings you.
“the earth It represents patience, stability, strength, health, grounding and concentration of energies. Promotes peace, fertility, money, business success, stability, warmth, comfort, and physical strength. This beauty is from the continuing collection of Australian Nicolette Johnson ceramics, Symbolic Vases.”
“Metal It gives us the ability to look at what lies beyond ourselves, and the ability to let go of it. When I was young, I had an imaginary wish list of what I decided would be signs of becoming an “adult”. At the top of this list was a kitchen full of copper utensils and a dining table large enough to accommodate several people. (Soft toilet paper was also on the list.) “
“wisdom water is the flow. The water moves effortlessly and takes the exact shape of what it contains. The balanced element of Water can remain steady and calm and move smoothly through the season with strength, courage and will. I spent nine years overseeing the design direction of Peninsula Hot Springs; In this year’s relentless shutdowns, I think we all need time, in nature, to plunge into the groundwater.”
“the Wood The element is one who looks for ways to grow and expand. Wood heralds the beginning of life, spring and buds, sensuality and fertility. Makiko Ryujin is an Australian artist who draws on her Japanese heritage. Her actions are guided by the ceremony of burning sacred utensils, a ritual she observed as a child.”
The Makiko Ryujin Shinki (Burning Series) ships are based on their Japanese heritage. The artist carefully turns wood on a lathe to create high-sided bowls, jars, and dishes based on the shapes of sacred Japanese temple vessels.
In Chinese medicine, chi, Or “bio air,” is the body’s oxygen metabolism, the movement of oxygenated blood through the vascular system. These glass vessels create oxygenation by adding air To wine – another vital lifeline. “
Katie Ann Houghton completed her Bachelor of Visual Arts degree from Sydney College of Art in 2011, and upon graduation became a full-time assistant to Sydney-based glass artist Ben Idols. While in college and working with Edols, Katie- Ann exhibited her work in numerous galleries across Sydney and New South Wales.
“fabric It creates narratives between culture, age, status, gender, and race, allowing us to feel connected to the larger fabric of life. The Kuba people of central Congo are highly regarded for their raffia, which they perform using single-headed looms. The panels are individually woven and embellished using various techniques—embroidery, patchwork, drawn-thread work with bridge shells and bobbins—and then sewn together to form one longer piece of fabric that is always naturally dyed and hemmed. They make beautiful wall hangings and table runners.”
The Kuba people of central Congo are highly prized for their raffia-making work, weaving “dancing skirts” on single head looms.