Artist Michael Aram: The Core of his Vision is a Deep Attraction to Nature

Ocean Coral Napkin Holder by Michael Aram

Michael Aram has built a reputation creating high-quality, crafts-based pieces largely inspired by nature.  On a trip to India in the early 80s, he discovered a metalworking tradition that was largely untapped.  He quickly set up shop in New Delhi.  Turning his attention to crafts-based design, his work bridges the oft overlooked gap between artist and artisan.

In Hindi, the word “aram” means “gently, with peace, love, and care.”  A daily mantra to his craftsmen, his success resides in the creation of high quality work, work that makes a personal statement while retaining universal appeal. 

The core of his vision is a deep attraction to nature and in particular, its fascinating variety of trees and plants.  This is reflected in many of his signature pieces, including the charmingly twisted “Sleepy Hollow” collection, his “Twigware” cutlery, and the “Fantasy Bloom” serving pieces, which have all brought a new whimsy and elegance to the American table.  He also has collections inspired by the ocean and solely by the artistic process. 

Ocean Coral Photo Frame by Michael Aram

His work has a soulful quality and energy – which is only possible with handmade work.  No two pieces are alike.  His pieces work well with both contemporary and more classic interiors. 

Aram’s empathetic and holistic worldviews have made him a popular speaker and he has remained philanthropic throughout his career.  A partner in SeaWeb’s Too Precious to Wear Campaign, Aram donated some of his treasures to raise awareness of the global threat to coral reefs.  Taking time out to talk to SeaWeb about what inspires him to use his art to raise environmental awareness:

• On the design industry as a whole:  “I believe that there is presently a deeper commitment and heightened awareness of conservation and environmental stewardship.” 
• On coral as inspiration:  “Using coral as inspiration offers an endless variation of shapes, textures, forms, and even colors.”
• On his message:  “Rather than use endangered natural resources in the final product, use them as inspiration.  This promotes artistry and richness of thought while preserving natural resources.”
• On consumer buying decisions:  “Buying prod
  
  ucts that are timeless, of high quality, and made through a sensitive process – enhance both cultural and natural resources.  Ideally, purchase heirloom pieces rather than disposables destined for landfills.”
• On life in India:  “My life is beautifully organized between work, home, and friends.  India is the heart of the organization, NYC its brain.”
• On his leap to India:  “It wasn’t even a decision.  I just immediately started doing what felt right.”

Ocean Coral Centerpiece Bowl by Michael Aram

His flagship store is located at 136 W. 18^th Street in Manhattan.  In addition, there are several “shop-in-shops” in Bloomingdales, Niemen Marcus, Saks, and select Macy’s stores.  In sum, his work is sold in 600 major department stores and specialty boutiques including LCR, worldwide.