Alpi, the Italian leader in reconstituted wood surfaces, debuts “The Lost Cloth Object,” a Kuba-inspired collection created with Stephen Burks Man Made for the 20th anniversary of Design Miami. The installation highlights a fusion of heritage, craft, and innovation, emphasizing cultural preservation through modern materiality.
Inspired by Kuba textiles from the Democratic Republic of Congo, the collection reimagines traditional geometric patterns in native species of wood, including ebony and rosewood. Developed through extensive research and a Kinshasa workshop with Kuba artisans, the project explores new artistic interpretations of endangered crafts.
Exhibited from December 2-7 at Miami Beach, the installation features patterned furniture—including a rocking stool, ottoman, and curved partition—blending African motifs with Italian design excellence. Curatorial Director Glenn Adamson describes it as a powerful dialogue between diverse cultural perspectives and material innovation.