Illuminating Creativity
Shining a spotlight on Canadian-Italian artist,
Jenna Basso Pietrobon
In the world of ceramics, where mass-production dominates, one talented artist dares to challenge the status quo. With a vision that disrupts conventional molds and celebrates uniqueness, Jenna Basso Pietrobon‘s work is an exploration of artistry, sustainability, and cultural heritage. As a lighting company committed to supporting artistic endeavors, Zaneen is proud to help raise awareness for Basso Pietrobon, whose groundbreaking new series, “Break the Mold,” defies expectations and gives back to Nove di Bassano, a rural community in Italy.
“I hope this work will inspire people to embrace and celebrate their idiosyncrasies, rather than conform their lives to predetermined forms.”
Honoring a legacy – Jenna Basso Pietrobon’s artistic journey with ceramics is deeply rooted in her personal and cultural history. Harking back to the 1950s, when Basso Pietrobon’s grandparents migrated from Italy to Canada, the family’s connection to ceramics were applied to lighting craftsmanship. Growing up, Basso Pietrobon spent a lot of her time in the family’s lighting factory, surrounded by fixtures and shades, Basso Pietrobon developed a passion for the industry. Now, returning to the Italian town of Nove di Bassano where her grandfather lived 70 years prior, Basso Pietrobon endeavors to pay homage to her familial roots while forging a new path.
Embracing imperfection – In the “Break the Mold” series, Basso Pietrobon breathes new life into forgotten plaster molds used from the 1970s to 1990s, originally destined for uniform production. Instead of conforming to the ordinary, these molds become vessels for unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. By removing the clay forms prematurely from the molds and shaping them manually, Basso Pietrobon imparts an unexpected fragility and imperfection that truly captures the essence of each creation.
Unique lamps and vases – The centerpiece of the “Break the Mold” series is a collection of lamps and vases that epitomize Basso Pietrobon’s creative vision. By collaging multiple modified plaster molds, each lamp becomes a distinct composition, defying expectations and challenging traditional form. Adorned with vintage fabrics from the Veneto region, each lampshade tells a story. The resulting interplay between the viewer and the lamp sparks a dynamic relationship, blurring the lines between art and functionality.
Browse the lamps in the “Break the Mold” collection here.
Immerse yourself in the process – Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Break The Mold collection through Basso Pietrobon’s compelling documentary. Experience the beauty of exquisite visuals and heartfelt narratives as she takes you on a journey that unveils the creation process behind this remarkable collection and the importance of heritage preservation.
Bringing art to life – In a bold and captivating performance during the prestigious Milano Design Week’s Fuorisalone, Basso Pietrobon brought her sustainable lampshades into the public sphere. Donning a unitard adorned with various lampshades on her head and holding an illuminated light bulb, Basso Pietrobon became a living embodiment of her creations. This performative dialogue invited onlookers to engage with the art, blurring the boundaries between the artist, the art, and the audience.
Inspiring innovation – For centuries, the town of Nove di Bassano has thrived as a center for ceramics production. However, with the advent of globalized outsourcing, the town’s rich heritage has begun to fade. Basso Pietrobon’s work stands as a testament to the importance of preserving the past while embracing innovation. To support this endeavor, part of the proceeds from the “Break the Mold” collection will be donated to The Fondamenta — an initiative dedicated to revitalizing Nove’s legacy, creating job opportunities, preserving ceramic knowledge, and fostering international artistic collaboration.
Jenna Basso Pietrobon inspires us all to break free from the confines of conformity and embrace the beauty of imperfection. As a lighting company committed to supporting artistic expression and sustainability, we are honored to spotlight Basso Pietrobon not only to illuminate spaces but also revitalize communities and rekindle the spirit of creativity. Together, we hope to bring attention, work, and energy to the artisans and industries of Nove, ushering in a new era of artistic regeneration.
See Jenna Basso Pietrobon’s catalog to see more about this inspiring “Break the Mold” collection.
Cheers!
Z-Team
