WHITE PLAINS, N.Y.-The New York International Gift Fair will showcase emerging designers at two sections—A+: The Young Designers’ Platform at Accent on Design and Emerging Designer Maker Platform in Handmade Designer Maker—when the show takes place, Jan. 26-30.
The A+ section will introduce the work of emerging designers chosen based on design concept, creativity and originality. They were selected by a panel of designers, retailers and industry advisers from the Accent on Design Selection Committee, along with Paul Rowan of Umbra. The chosen companies are design on shell with Shirrley, an expandable, multifunction tote bag made out of mesh fabric and string; and Souda with the Kreten Side Table, Mitre Stool, Bubble Chandelier and Kawa Series of porcelain vases and vessels.
The Emerging Designer Maker Platform will present work chosen by a panel of artisans, retailers and craft industry advisers. Participants will include Vanessa Chew Designs with the Roots Wooden Jewelry collection, Clementine Porcelain with functional cast porcelain pieces, Nicole Porter with a the Modern Neon Hardwood line of home products made from beech wood, and Wendy Robbins with the Tin Ceiling collection of apparel.
In addition, Mecca Perry, founder and creative director of Ann Perry Designs, has been awarded the third annual Carol Sedestrom Ross “Maker-to-Market” scholarship. Perry has created a line of aprons mimicking the style of fashionable dresses. The award is named after the late Carol Sedestrom Ross, former director of craft marketing for GLM, the Gift Fair’s owner and manager.