Piaget Launches Shapes of Extraleganza in Abu Dhabi
This week, Piaget launched its latest collection, Shapes of Extraleganza, in Abu Dhabi, showcasing a unique blend of design, culture, and identity. The event, held at Erth, a striking architectural landmark, runs until November 1st and highlights the maison’s commitment to innovation in luxury jewelry.
A Celebration of Design and Heritage
Shapes of Extraleganza represents the second installment in a trilogy inspired by Piaget’s creative peak during the 1960s and 1970s. This era saw the maison collaborate with iconic artists like Salvador Dalí and Andy Warhol, merging art with jewelry design. The new collection captures this spirit, featuring high-gloss geometric shapes that interact dynamically with light and color, evoking a sense of nostalgia while remaining distinctly modern.
The exhibition at Erth, which translates to “legacy” in Arabic, emphasizes the dialogue between past and present. The interplay of materials—steel, silk, light, and shadow—creates a captivating experience that transcends a traditional jewelry showcase.
The Shimmering Lights Sautoir
Among the standout pieces is the Abu Dhabi-exclusive Shimmering Lights sautoir. This piece reinterprets Piaget’s 1969 “swinging sautoirs,” combining iridescent mother-of-pearl with elements that reflect the Gulf’s rich pearl-diving history. The sautoir serves as both an ornament and a narrative artifact, embodying the intersection of cultural memory and contemporary design.
A Shift Towards Rhythm and Risk
While the first chapter, Essence of Extraleganza, focused on refinement, the current collection embraces a more daring approach. The designs feature triangles that transform into waves, circles that morph into sharp lines, and textures that ripple like sound. Influences from Pop Art and psychedelic fashion are evident, yet the overall aesthetic remains polished and modern. Piaget describes this collection as “playful audacity,” capturing a sense of geometry infused with vitality.
Cultural Significance for Abu Dhabi
Piaget’s collaboration with Abu Dhabi is significant in the context of the city’s cultural evolution. In recent years, Abu Dhabi has shifted its focus from oil to art, using culture as a means of nation-building. The partnership with Piaget aligns with this narrative, merging global luxury with local heritage. According to Piaget CEO Benjamin Comar, “Abu Dhabi’s evolving cultural scene offers the perfect canvas for bold creativity and artistic dialogue.” This collaboration not only showcases craftsmanship but also highlights the potential for Western and Arab aesthetics to coexist harmoniously.
The Essence of Shapes of Extraleganza
Ultimately, Shapes of Extraleganza transcends mere jewelry; it explores the concept of heritage as a material to be shaped and redefined. In the vibrant light of Abu Dhabi, Piaget’s creations not only shine but also seem to come alive, embodying fluidity and meaning. The maison, known for its precision in watchmaking, now redefines elegance through the lens of geometry and cultural legacy.
FAQs
What is the significance of the Shapes of Extraleganza collection?
The collection reflects Piaget’s creative heritage from the 1960s and 1970s, merging contemporary design with historical influences, showcasing a dialogue between past and present.
Where is the Shapes of Extraleganza exhibition taking place?
The exhibition is held at Erth, a modern architectural landmark in Abu Dhabi, and will run until November 1st.
What makes the Shimmering Lights sautoir unique?
The Shimmering Lights sautoir is an Abu Dhabi-exclusive piece that combines iridescent mother-of-pearl with elements inspired by the region’s pearl-diving heritage, serving as both an ornament and a cultural narrative.
Conclusion
Piaget’s Shapes of Extraleganza in Abu Dhabi is a remarkable fusion of luxury, culture, and artistry. The collection not only showcases innovative designs but also reflects the city’s commitment to cultural expression. As the exhibition continues, it invites visitors to experience the dynamic interplay of heritage and modernity through exquisite jewelry.
The launch of Shapes of Extraleganza in Abu Dhabi also coincides with the city’s broader cultural initiatives, which include various art festivals and exhibitions aimed at enhancing its status as a global cultural hub. This strategic focus on the arts has attracted international attention, positioning Abu Dhabi as a destination for luxury brands and artistic collaborations.
Piaget’s decision to unveil this collection in Abu Dhabi underscores the brand’s recognition of the region’s growing influence in the luxury market. By engaging with local culture and history, Piaget not only honors the rich traditions of the Gulf but also appeals to a discerning clientele that values both heritage and innovation in luxury goods.
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