"Citizen Of Nowhere X Heartist" is a limited edition, hand-woven hilltribe textile collection, created by autistic artists in Thailand.
This is the first "underdog" Thai craft collaboration between the non-profit group Heartist, and Citizen Of Nowhere, a company established by celebrated Thai designer and artist Saran Yen Panya, who is also the founder and creative director of creative agency 56th Studio.
Citizen Of Nowhere is his personal project to build awareness and appreciation of the many local craftmakers throughout the country, who due to technological challenges or limited marketing know-how, are unable to present their creations to a wider audience.
Saran Yen Panya.
Reputed for its special artisanal products with a modern vibe but uniquely Thai, the company is determined to work with local artisans who produce in small amounts and take great pride in their craft.
He uses the term "underdogs" to describe these unique individuals and their creative works, saying that being the underdog means being underrated and underappreciated and it only makes sense to shine a light on something that has not yet been properly shown.
The 'Citizen Of Nowhere X Heartist' collaborative collection.
With sustainability as a central principle for each of his projects, income generated ensures that the company can continue its mission and that the craftspeople earn a fair income for their creations.
The 'Citizen Of Nowhere X Heartist' collaborative collection.
This collaboration with Heartist illustrates the company's unconventional approach by spotlighting a largely unfamiliar group of artisans -- all autistic individuals -- and the modern, inviting spin they put on traditional hilltribe textiles.
Heartist maintains a group of passionate volunteers who work with autistic people throughout Thailand, using textile weaving as a tool in therapy. The resulting textile crafts -- and most are one-of-a-kind -- are in turn blended with Citizen Of Nowhere's modern, post-punk aesthetic, for everyday lifestyle products that are "anti-trend and meaningful".
The 'Citizen Of Nowhere X Heartist' collaborative collection.
The collection comprises of four main categories -- pillow, side table/coffee table, tote bag and stool. They are available at Citizen Of Nowhere Line Shop at shop.line.me/@citizenofnowhere. Part of the proceeds from sales will be given to Heartist to further their volunteer work.
