Interview – When Craftsmanship Meets Contemporary Design

As part of Helsinki Design Week, the French Institute of Finland is presenting an exhibition entitled “Dialogue in Design: From Gobelins to Aalto.” This exhibition celebrates the interplay between French artisanal craftsmanship and the innovation of today’s designers. 

But what exactly do we mean when we talk about traditional French craftmanship? And on the other hand, what defines contemporary French design? 

To explore these questions, we had a chat with designer Cyrienne Buffet from Aalto University who has also curated the exhibition. 

Cyrienne, could you explain what exactly we mean when we talk about the French craft tradition? Are there any concrete examples that illustrate this know-how?

“The French craft tradition was born from the intertwining of the decorative arts, design, and a deep appreciation for beauty, a legacy that began under Louis XIV. Of course, when speaking of this tradition and Louis XIV, it’s impossible not to mention the Mobilier National or the Sèvres Manufactory. And to make a more direct connection with the exhibition, there’s the Savonnerie, which produced the Trésor rug.”

 

 

 

 

What place does the work of young French designers hold within this tradition?

“Young designers challenge established codes while honoring technical excellence. They stand out through their experimental approach and international outlook, turning tradition into a creative laboratory.” 

 

How can these continuities — or breaks — be seen in the exhibition?

“Each young designer in the exhibition draws from their technical heritage to create a personal language. The works demonstrate mastery of traditional crafts (glass, tapestry, wood) while incorporating contemporary formal breaks.”

 

 

 

 

 

In what ways do the works create a dialogue between past and present? 

“The pieces in the exhibition combine inherited technical excellence with contemporary aesthetics. They show that tradition remains alive and is capable of reinventing itself at any moment.” 

Do you see any similarities between French and Finnish design traditions? 

“Both countries share a deep respect for materials and the craftsmanship involved in working them. They also share the same commitment to balancing their cultural and technical heritage with contemporary innovation. Additionally, there is a shared national pride in the designers and creatives of both countries.” 

 

To truly understand how the new generation of French designers embraces their technical heritage while reinventing the codes of aesthetics, visit the French Institute from September 11 to November 11 for the exhibition! Admission is free during the Institute’s opening hours.