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Helming Nilufar gallery and depot in Milan, Italy, Yashar made a trip to India on the opening of the luxury retail hub Nilaya Anthology by Asian Paints in Mumbai. We spoke to her about design, curation, and what people can expect from the new store
Nina Yashar, a renowned gallerist and an influential name in the design world is the creative visionary behind Nilufar in Milan—encompassing unique, collectible objects from around the world. Founded by her in 1979, the two enjoy ample adulation from designers and connoisseurs alike. We caught up with Yashar on her recent trip to Mumbai at the launch of luxury retail store Nilaya Anthology by Asian Paints where Nilufar made its debut for the Indian consumers. Excerpts from the interview.
Nina Yashar (NY): My creative journey began when I was very young with a deep curiosity for discovering beauty in unexpected places. It started through my family business of selling antique carpets which taught me the importance of craftsmanship and history. After doing so for about 20 years, a visit to Stockholm opened my eyes to historical mid-century design. From there, I moved to collectible design by new, talented designers discovering incredible pieces from all over the world. Over time, my passion expanded to contemporary design, leading to the creation of Nilufar as a platform for bold, visionary works. And now, I have started the Nilufar Edition initiative featuring furnishings and lighting for elegant interiors that we are expanding worldwide.
NY: What keeps me going is the constant, insatiable desire to discover incredible design, new talent, ideas, procedures, and craftsmanship. Through the carpet business, I have had the opportunity to see the world and discover something new in every place I visit. Several years ago when I was in Japan, I bought Japanese screens, antique pieces, etc, and it gave me a new perspective. I am not afraid of finding new cultural narratives. In the last few years, things have considerably changed in the design world. I never knew about 3D printing but I am excited to discover it. I believe that design is ever-evolving, and there is always something new to learn. I find immense joy in bringing designers, artisans, and collectors together to create something meaningful. So this keeps me going even today.
NY: My selection process is instinctive, blending historical references with contemporary relevance. I seek out designers who push boundaries while respecting tradition. It’s not just about aesthetics but about substance and innovation—each piece must tell a story.
NY: India’s rich history of craftsmanship is unparalleled. The ability to merge heritage techniques with modern interpretations is fascinating. I am drawn to Indian design because I think the most incredible thing about it is the attention to detail. There is a deep emotional and narrative quality in Indian design that resonates globally. I, in fact, represent Vikram Goyal who transforms brass using age-old, ancient techniques and innovation into one-of-a-kind collectible pieces. I am very curious about discovering more talents.
NY: The space curated here represents exactly my point of view and what I do. It is an example of my years of experience of putting things together back at Nilufar Depot in Milan. Expect a blend of contemporary and collectible design that bridges cultures. I have curated it by mixing vintage collections with collectible design and the Nilufar Edition, making it a journey between the past, present and future—a conversation between different eras.
NY: I want the visitors to see my usual narrative and perspective on design through our debut at Nilaya Anthology. Nilufar has always been about discovery, and I hope Indian consumers embrace the dialogue between the past and future. I like to create a scenography where people can imagine the pieces in their homes, see them in a real, domestic ambience. For example, I started the scenography here thinking about large, convivial dinners Indian families usually have, and added a huge table. I have also included pieces by Joe Armitage whose grandfather, Edward Armitage, worked in India with Le Corbusier. He designed the iconic standing floor lamp that Joe has reinvented into an incredible chandelier. There’s also a sitting area where pieces from Nilufar Edition and vintage collectibles are placed. So this is an invitation for Indian visitors to experience a new perspective on design. I want them to feel inspired, to see design as a living, evolving form of expression.
NY: In this trip, I hope to find new talent because as I said I admire the craftsmanship here and I am very curious to discover who is doing carved wood or metal. I want to explore the country’s artistic and architectural heritage, immerse myself in the vibrant culture, colours and energy that make India unique, and shop for fabrics. I also want to meet designers, artisans, and creatives shaping India’s contemporary design landscape.
Photography by Prachi Damle
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DEC 2023
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17 Oct 23, 03.00PM - 04.00PM