The best Surrealism

Local womenswear label Rye has made a name for itself with its timeless everyday pieces. With a less-is-more philosophy, the brand prides itself in considered designs that evoke effortless style. Now taking its passion for design a step further, it begins its venture into the interiors space with a beautiful glass blown candle set.

Designed in collaboration with Bangkok-based fragrance house Copenn, The Art of Glass is, first and foremost, crafted as an object of design. Beautifully sculpted glass takes on a gorgeous molten silhouette, making for a statement piece that invites intrigue into any living space. Each candle is handblown in the last-standing hot shop in Nakhon Pathom, embodying the delicate balance of intensity and fragility that defines the intricate craft. Scented soy wax is hand-poured in the glass candle holder and presented alongside a pinched bell jar and a textured steel tray. Available in two signature scents—crisp, botanical Dimorfig and musky, woody Cellarage—The Art of Glass is as much a work of art as it is a piece of homeware.

The candle's form, shares Rye's founder Bessie Ye, comes inspired by Surrealism. A 20th century avant-garde movement in art and literature, Surrealism seeks to reveal the creative potential of the unconscious mind. Below, Ye curates a selection of furniture and decor that inspired her in the process of creating The Art of Glass—led by her love for surrealist art and beautiful craftsmanship.

1 / 8

"Sabine Marcelis is one of my favourite furniture designers of today. I love the duality of her Mirage table. The light and reflection of the glass together with the sunset colour gradient and the glass cylinders below create a strong aesthetic."

2 / 8

"The Art Of Glass was in part inspired by Salvador Dali's works of Surrealism. The egg is a symbolic element in his art that represents hope and love."

3 / 8

"Brutalism is one of my favourite art movements. The choice of material used here is unexpected, and creates a chair that is very artistic and sculptural."

4 / 8

"The Ghost Chair was created in the 80s. I like that it gives the illusion that it is floating. At the same time, it pushes the boundaries of glass to create comfort and functionality. It is such a statement piece, in terms of both function and artistry."

5 / 8

"The amber colour of this Murano glass bowl is just beautiful and luxurious."

6 / 8

"I love the choice of limestone clay for the console table, and something about the composition of the piece evokes Surrealism."

7 / 8

"In the early stage of conceptualising The Art Of Glass, I did a lot of research on Elsa Peretti's tableware work. I was very inspired by how a small detail like the thumbprint indent could make such an impact to an overall design."

8 / 8

"I am a huge fan of organic forms, and this vase from Dana Arbib captures that essence beautifully. The shape, form and detailing give a contemporary touch—making it a great centrepiece for the home and living space."

Order your copy of the March ‘Roots’ issue of Vogue Singapore online or pick it up on newsstands today.