‘A thing of beauty is joy forever’, we’ve all heard the saying, but no words can capture the raw emotions one feels when we hold an exquisite piece of jewellery or art in our hands. The sheer luminescence of the glinting metal, the intricate designs carved by artisans, the precious stones that seem to come alive as they catch the light.
That is the inexplicable feeling that each piece in the Lotus Art De Vivre’s 2024 collection creates, from masterful sculptures to exquisite jewellery and home decor. Each piece is a handcrafted story, deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Asian culture and mythology.
Nature serves as a constant muse, inspiring the use of rare and symbolic materials. From the warmth of ebony and precious woods to the delicate beauty of coconut shells, scarab wings, and seashells, LADV transforms these natural treasures into art. This is just a glimpse into the vast material palette they utilise.
Founded nearly four decades ago by Rolf and Helen von Bueren in Thailand, Lotus Arts de Vivre has become a family legacy. Over the years, the von Bueren family, including sons Sri and Nicki, have taken forward the tradition of crafting exquisite collectables. Life N Style delves deeper into their world and brings its readers curated pieces from the latest collection.
The Scarab Collection
In ancient civilizations, the scarab beetle was a powerful symbol revered for embodying transformation, protection, and resurrection. The fluorescent wings are fascinating and shimmer with shades of blue, green, orange, and purple. This vibrant palette, remarkably, can last for centuries.
These stunning earrings from Lotus Arts de Vivre are a testament to both artistry and ancient symbolism. The scarabs chosen for their colour are crafted into a delicate angel wing design. This intricate piece is hand assembled, using rose-cut white diamonds for added sparkle.
The foundation showcases a unique combination of materials: black rhodium for a luxurious touch, sterling silver for strength, and 9K pink gold for warmth. But the real stars of the show are the scarab wings themselves. Specially shaved to a precise thickness, they retain their vibrant colour for centuries, even shifting from green to blue depending on the light.
Teak & Silver Art Collection
Sustainability is at the very core of Lotus Art De Vivre and this collection is a prime example. Rolf believes that wood has two lives, one as a living tree and the other after it loses its battle with nature. For instance, when he finds a piece of wood, submerged underwater for over 50 years, the artist in him conjures up art pieces in his mind utilising its original shape without altering it.
This majestic sculpture is a fusion of natural beauty and artistic skill. Carved from a single piece of rare teak wood, its sinuous curves and natural pits showcase the inherent artistry of the root itself. Sourced from the renowned teak groves of Java, the wood’s unique character shines through.
The tiger’s piercing gaze is captured with tiger eye stones, adding a touch of realism and symbolism. Sterling silver accents complete the piece, creating a sense of understated luxury.
Enamoured by the artistry, eye for detail, and dedication that brings fantasy to life, Life N Style spoke with Niklas van Bueren, CEO of Lotus Art De Vivre, In this conversation, we explored how the brand creates its beautiful objets d’art, its vision for the future, and the sustainability practices that are fundamental to its brand.
Lotus Art De Vivre is renowned for its innovative approach to luxury living. Could you share some insights into the latest design trends and technologies that LADV is incorporating into its projects to stay ahead in the luxury market?
Niklas van Bueren, CEO of Lotus Art De Vivre: Our designs are inspired by hand-crafted techniques which we re-invent into modern-day silhouettes and functional pieces. These pieces are conversational and limited. For us, this is the epitome of luxury.
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the luxury sector. How does LADV integrate sustainable practices into its design and construction processes, and what measures are taken to ensure that luxury and environmental responsibility go hand in hand?
We have always been conscious of the environment in our designs. For instance, the wood used in our home decor is one that would normally not have much value. However, we give it a second life and a beautiful home. This is also applied to our jewellery designs.
We have always been uber-conscious of preserving the environment, giving back more than we take from it. It would not be an exaggeration to state that all our designs are inspired by nature and our building blocks are all naturally occurring materials, be it jewellery, handbags, objects d’art or functional pieces of furniture, to which we cleverly & deftly add special touches of other elements such as gold, silver, or enamel only to enhance what already exists naturally.
We believe in breathing new life into what we find in nature’s bounty. My father Rolf von Beuren has a unique talent, a skill that he has honed to perfection over the past four decades of adding value to what may seem insignificant to a less trained, less experience eye.
With his keen imagination, he turns an indistinct piece of teakwood or burl wood into a roaring tiger or a leopard about to pounce on its prey.
Scarab beetle wings gets a new lease of life once they are carefully crafted into the most beautiful pieces of jewellery that are highly coveted by anyone who sees them.
Beyond crafting exquisite objects and collectibles, Lotus Arts De Vivre embraces a vital mission. They act as stewards for endangered crafts and artisans. By recognising their talent, providing sustainable livelihoods, and fostering these arts forms, we help prevent their slow decline and ensure their legacy lives on.
As a leader in luxury living, does LADV have plans for global expansion? If so, what markets are you targeting and what strategies will you employ to establish your brand internationally?
Focusing on handcrafted, eco-conscious creation, we are pursuing thoughtful expansion through select partners. Unlike many luxury brands that strayed from their artisanal roots in pursuit of profit, we prioritise quality and sustainability.
