Harmony in simplicity infuses the artisanal narrative of Christian Vivanco's ‘Clavijero’

Simple lines and refined materials define the essence of Clavijero, a furniture collection that highlights the strength of unembellished design. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the humble 'Butaca' lounge chair and 'Banca' bench are not just pieces of furniture but an embodiment of the philosophy that simplicity, when executed with precision, can result in timeless elegance.

In a world often captivated by complexity, Clavijero serves as a refreshing departure, embracing the beauty found in the uncomplicated. Christian Vivanco, the Mexican designer behind this product design collection, shares his insights with STIR on the design process, cultural influences, and the collaboration that brought Clavijero to life.

The allure of the Clavijero collection emanates from its commitment to simplicity—a purposeful endeavour to distil design to its core elements, demonstrating that true richness can be achieved through a minimalist approach. The furniture designer articulates his ethos to STIR, stating that his primary creative interest lies in understanding an object through the simplicity of its lines and the honesty of its materials. Amid a world overwhelmed by excess, Clavijero elegantly puts forth the idea that the combination of straightforward lines and down-to-earth materials is all that is required to cultivate designs that radiate opulence.

Clavijero, inspired by classic theatre seats, is a nod to the intrinsic elegance found in theatres worldwide. The Mexican industrial designer believes that theatres, at their core, offer a unique and exceptional experience, bestowing unforgettable moments. The challenge was to capture the essence of the emblematic theatre seat and translate the experience of attending the theatre into pieces of modern design.

Named after one of the oldest theatres in Mexico, the collection draws from its cultural and historical context to infuse an artisanal narrative and significance into the furniture pieces. Vivanco emphasises his belief in salvaging the finest from the past, contributing to the material culture of the future. As he says, “In the instance of Clavijero, I undertook a historical enquiry to pinpoint the fundamental and primitive elements that have persisted since the earliest contemporary theatres in Mexico." The result is a collection that transcends time, connecting the contemporary with the enduring traditions of old Mexican theatres.

The pieces in the Clavijero collection are not mass-produced but crafted by hand, using traditional carpentry techniques. Elaborating on craftsmanship and his affinity for handmade processes, the product designer relays, “I have always been deeply drawn to handcrafted construction processes, for material transformation, and furniture crafting. To me, these methods authentically mirror the true nature of things, embodying the craftsmanship behind each creation with utmost fidelity. I strive to steer clear of excessive ornamentation, acknowledging instances in construction processes where ornamentation can become a distracting element. Ultimately, in my perspective, objects and furniture merely serve as a canvas to articulate the intrinsic value encapsulated within authentic craftsmanship. They are, in essence, a conduit to convey the inherent significance of the artisan’s touch."

The choice of cowhide articulating the collection was a deliberate decision born out of a conversation with Caterina Moretti, founder and creative director of Peca, a design studio based in Guadalajara, Mexico. The incorporation of leather as a material that complements, balances, and enriches the composition of the designs aligns seamlessly with the ethos of simplicity. The cowhide, transformed through a traditional process executed by local master artisans in Guadalajara becomes an integral part of the furniture designs, giving it a unique and timeless look.

Delving into the nuanced design philosophy underpinning the creations, Vivanco reflects on the delicate equilibrium between form and function, notably showcased in the collection's pieces. Each chair design and bench is meticulously crafted with the user’s experience at the forefront, emphasising its suitability for diverse activities such as conversations, reading, rest, as well as contemplation. Beyond mere aesthetics, the furniture designer pays close attention to the social dynamics facilitated by these pieces, creating armchairs for engaging conversations or seats for moments of quiet introspection. Factors such as seat depth, backrest recline, armrest height, and overall proportions are thoughtfully considered, resulting in a holistic approach that seamlessly blends functionality, comfort, and environmental integration.

Vivanco's collaboration with Peca further enriches the Clavijero story. Moretti shares the designer's commitment to working with natural materials and exploring texture and form. The collaboration results in a catalogue that is not only rich in tradition but also infused with innovation. Moretti excels in minutely focusing on the details of her furniture, accessories, and interior design projects, simultaneously directing her design studio towards the future. As a designer, she draws inspiration from nature and the potential of raw materials to assume various shapes and textures. Peca’s presence in awards, exhibits, and retail spaces globally is a testament to the careful selection of artisans and guest designers, creating a unique spirit that flows in unexpected directions.

The product designer’s work, including the Clavijero collection, has been exhibited globally. Vivanco sees the collection as a testament to his perpetual pursuit of a design ethos characterised by honesty, simplicity, and humility. “Delving into my Mexican heritage and the influences it has woven into my identity as a designer, I hold the essence of ingenuity and simplicity in high regard when materialising any creation,” he mentions. It is an ode to the purity that resonates within the design process, serving as a conduit for profound emotional connections. The collection becomes a cultural ambassador, showcasing the authenticity and richness of Mexican design on the international contemporary stage.

In a world where more is often considered better, the Clavijero collection stands as a quiet rebellion, proving that sometimes, the most powerful statements are made with simplicity. With only a lounge chair and a bench, Clavijero is a minimalist masterpiece, demonstrating that elegance lies in the unembellished, and true luxury is found in the balance of elements. Vivanco’s wisdom shapes the foundation of the collection’s ethos, highlighting the significance of viewing objects through the lens of simplicity, while fostering a dialogue between contemporary design and ancestral crafts. In a narrative that spans a thousand words, Clavijero eloquently articulates the timeless allure and enduring beauty intrinsic to the simplicity of design, transcending mere functionality to become a testament to the essence of thoughtful craftsmanship and artistic dialogue.