Q&a / Nilufar Gallery founder Nina Yashar’s passions and projects: from discovering Italian design legend Gio Ponti to her Open Edition collection just shown at Salone del Mobile
- Nina Yashar thinks Salone del Mobile should be biannual as the creative community ‘cannot invent something incredible every year’ – and says the style world should do the same with fashion weeks
- Open Edition, held at Nilufar during Salone del Mobile, features over 100 items created by innovative designers such as Gal Gaon and Filippo Carandini
Ever since she founded her Milan-based gallery Nilufar in 1979, talent scout, curator and collector Nina Yashar has been hailed as one of the world’s great tastemakers. Here, the 67-year-old talks design, talent and her Open Edition collection.
Where did your passion for collectible design come from?
When I was 21, I joined the family business. My father was a rug dealer so the only option to express myself was by following in his footsteps. I didn’t have any idea of which area I would specialise in, but my own journey started in Stockholm where, by chance, I discovered a passion for mid-century furniture. I have not abandoned this world ever since. For me, the big masters like [Italian designer] Gio Ponti have created the roots and references for many Italian designers working today. Italian mid-century is my favourite design period.
How has your curation evolved over your career?
To be honest, my curation has always followed my personal passion. I opened my gallery based on what I really wanted to do. Obviously, my process has become more refined – I’ve honed my aesthetics and sensibilities, and deepened my understanding of design as a whole. The consistent thread is a focus on pieces that aren’t just visually stunning, but also conceptually rich and emotionally resonant.
In your mind, what constitutes a well-designed piece?
It’s about emotional attraction. Everyone’s first approach is to always to follow their instinct. After this I consider the current waves in design – so not only trends but how they have influenced cultural and historical periods, and thus people’s interests in design and furniture. For example, in the last few years bronze is something that is very appreciated. I also look at the research, craftsmanship and the fact that piece must be different to what is already available in the market.
How do you choose artists to collaborate with?