The Rhinoceros Gallery in Rome will host the group exhibition “Profiles and Gestures” until August 31, 2025, marking the second act of the collaboration between the exhibition space, directed by Alessia Caruso Fendi, and Galerie kreo. The exhibition highlights the works of four designers whose practices explore material experimentation, craftsmanship, and artistic expression, creating a dynamic dialogue between forms, profiles, and gestures. Featured alongside Pierre Charpin, Jean-Baptiste Fastrez, and Chris Kabel, Jaime Hayon is a prominent figure in the contemporary design scene. Known for his ability to blend art and design, Hayon challenges traditional boundaries between these disciplines, transforming everyday objects into unique and imaginative experiences. His distinctive and globally recognized style continues to explore new artistic horizons. In the Roman exhibition, his works are conceived more as sculptures than functional objects, offering a fascinating insight into the ongoing evolution of his expressive language.
How do you balance art and design in your projects? What are the challenges and opportunities?
For me, art and design are two sides of the same coin. I never see them as separate disciplines but as complementary ways of expressing creativity. Art allows for total freedom, where storytelling and emotions take center stage, while design brings structure, function, and a direct dialogue with the user. The challenge lies in maintaining a sense of play and spontaneity while respecting the constraints of production and usability. The opportunity, however, is immense: by blurring the lines between these worlds, I can create pieces that are both emotionally engaging and highly functional, pieces that live in the everyday but still carry a sense of fantasy.
Where do you find inspiration for your whimsical characters and how do they evolve?
My inspiration comes from a mix of childhood memories, folk traditions, historical references, and pure imagination. I’ve always been fascinated by storytelling and how objects can evoke emotions. The creatures and characters in my work emerge organically, influenced by my travels, encounters with different cultures, and the visual richness of the world around me. Over time, my creations evolve as I refine my lines, experiment with new materials, and explore new techniques. While the essence remains, I always look for ways to push boundaries, making my work more sophisticated while retaining its sense of joy and spontaneity.
What makes your style distinctive, and how did you develop your “artistic language”?
I believe my style stands out because of its strong narrative, the fluidity of form, and the emotional impact of color and material. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of creating fantasy within reality, where everyday objects become special through playful forms, bold lines, and unexpected details. Over the years, I’ve developed my “artistic language” through experimentation and intuition. I never try to follow trends; instead, I follow my instincts and emotions, which allow my work to remain authentic. My goal is to create designs that transcend time, evoke curiosity, and bring a sense of joy.
Can you tell us about your exhibition with Galerie Kreo at Rhinoceros and how it differs from your upcoming work in Milan with Bosa?
The exhibition with Galerie Kreo at Rhinoceros was a deep dive into my artistic world, where pieces were approached as sculptures rather than functional objects. It was an opportunity to push the limits of materiality and form, creating a space where fantasy and craftsmanship intersect in a more conceptual way. The work for Milan with Bosa, on the other hand, is more rooted in the idea of functional art. While it still carries a strong artistic identity, it is developed with a focus on usability and craftsmanship, bringing my vision into a more applied context. Both projects share my DNA, but one leans more into free artistic expression while the other embraces the world of design through collectible pieces.
