Mehdi Dakhli Discusses Pinto Collaboration, Cultural Memory, and Art of Objects
Mehdi Dakhli, a designer operating in Venice, Paris, and London, has collaborated with the French design firm Pinto to create a collection that includes the seating pieces Galka and Sting. In an interview with Whitewall, Dakhli characterized his design approach as deeply influenced by contemporary art, highlighting the importance of materiality and craftsmanship. He cites haute couture and Azzedine Alaïa as key inspirations, viewing design as a way to reshape cultural narratives. The partnership with Pinto began after he met Fahad and explored the showroom, where he admired Fahad's architectural insight. Galka offers two seating options, while Sting focused on concept and textile choices. Dakhli remarked that the collaboration sharpened his vision, with Pinto serving as a nurturing ground for creativity. Jacques Pépion captured the photographs.
Key facts
- Mehdi Dakhli is a curator and art advisor turned designer working across Venice, Paris, and London.
- Dakhli collaborated with French design house Pinto on pieces including the seating designs Galka and Sting.
- He describes his design practice as growing out of contemporary art, particularly conceptual art.
- Dakhli calls his approach 'artisanat d’art,' emphasizing the hand, material, and idea equally.
- He favors living materials like solid wood that age and develop patina, and cites Azzedine Alaïa as an influence.
- For Galka, two seating configurations were designed; the more traditional one was chosen for commercial reasons while preserving sculptural identity.
- Sting involved concept and creative conversations plus textiles, including fabrics from Pinto's partnership with Nobilis.
- Dakhli has also collaborated with Pritzker Prize-winning architect Francis Kéré.
Entities
Artists
- Mehdi Dakhli
- Francis Kéré
- Azzedine Alaïa
- Stefano Pilati
- Fahad
Institutions
- Pinto
- Nobilis
- Whitewall
Locations
- Venice
- Italy
- Paris
- France
- London
- United Kingdom