Materials Reimagined

Materials carry stories of where they’ve been, how they’ve been used, and what they were once meant to be. In the hands of these artists and makers, those stories don’t end. Instead, they are reshaped, repurposed, and given new meaning.

From discarded textiles and industrial remnants to natural elements and everyday waste, these creators transform materials that might otherwise be overlooked into something intentional and enduring. Through thoughtful processes and inventive approaches, they reveal the hidden potential.

Discover how these artists rework materials into something new. You can find these artists and many more at the One of a Kind Spring Show, April 24 – 26.

Founded by Inder Bedi, BEDI STUDIOS creates utilitarian designs rooted in sustainability and the belief that ​“one day everything new will come from something old.” Drawing from decades of experience in fashion and a commitment to environmental responsibility, the brand transforms reclaimed materials into functional, long-lasting pieces.

What inspired you to begin working with reclaimed materials?

Inder: After spending years in the fashion industry, I stepped away to reflect on the impact design was having on climate change and the planet. Inspired by Dieter Rams’ Ten Principles of Design, I began researching alternatives to virgin materials, looking at landfill materials and ocean pollution as a source of inspiration.

What materials do you work with, and how do they shape your designs?

Inder: We work with materials such as recycled nylon made from fishing nets, old carpets, and pre-consumer waste, as well as salvaged seatbelts, retired airline seats, and reclaimed materials from furniture. These materials are incredibly durable and functional, and they guide the design process, allowing us to create pieces that are both practical and long-lasting.

What does it mean to give materials a second life through your work?

Inder: Our ethos is rooted in contributing to the circular economy. Through our Second Life program, we aim to ensure our products continue to be used rather than ending up in landfill. It’s about designing with intention and creating pieces that are made to last for life.

Don Widmer is a book and paper artist whose work bridges traditional papermaking with storytelling and contemporary process. Using plant fibers and recycled textiles, he creates intricate pulp paintings and artist books that transform raw materials into narrative forms.

Tell us about your process.

Don: My work centers around papermaking, particularly a technique called pulp painting, where pigmented plant fibers are used as a painting medium. The pulp is applied directly onto freshly formed sheets of handmade paper, allowing the image and the surface to become one.

How do recycled materials play a role in your work?

Don: I often create paper from recycled fabrics like denim and linen, alongside plant fibers such as cotton and abaca. These materials are broken down and reformed into new sheets, giving them a completely new purpose while still carrying traces of their original form.

What inspires your work?

Don: Storytelling is a major influence. I’m drawn to histories, especially those that are less known, and I like to weave those narratives into my work. The materials themselves also play a role, connecting the story to something tangible and physical.

Through a meticulous, hands-on process, Simone Cabral the artist behind By Soul & Hands transforms discarded aluminum coffee pods into sculptural, wearable jewelry. Drawing inspiration from nature, geometry, and cultural influences, each piece reflects both material transformation and intentional design.

Tell us about your creative process.

Simone: My work begins with discarded aluminum coffee pods — materials that most people see as waste. Each pod is carefully cleaned, deconstructed, flattened, and transformed by hand through cutting, folding, embossing, and layering. I work slowly and intuitively, allowing the material to guide the final form.

What draws you to working with reused materials?

Simone: What I enjoy most is witnessing transformation — seeing a material that was once considered waste become a beautiful, wearable piece of jewelry. It allows people to see everyday materials differently and understand their potential.

What led you to this work?

Simone: My path was shaped by my background in environmental sanitation and reverse logistics, along with my training in ceramics. During the pandemic, I began experimenting with alternative materials at home, and discovering how to reuse aluminum coffee pods opened up a new creative path for me.

Chicago-based artist Darren Jones creates abstract paintings that capture the beauty and emotion of the natural world. Working across oil, acrylic, and mixed media, his practice blends impressionism and abstraction, resulting in works that evoke a sense of place, tranquility, and connection.

How did your journey as an artist begin?

Darren: My journey into art began somewhat unexpectedly in 2004. While walking to a movie, I passed an art store and noticed a starter oil painting kit in the window. After the movie, I went back and purchased it, and that evening marked the beginning of my artistic journey. Since then, I’ve been immersed in painting with dedication and passion.

What inspires your work?

Darren: I’ve always been inspired by the natural world and the sense of wonder it creates. My work is about capturing the essence of a place and evoking a sense of tranquility and harmony. Over time, my style has developed into a blend of impressionism, abstraction, and contemporary approaches.

How have materials evolved in your recent work?

Darren: In my latest collection, I’ve begun integrating materials such as recycled papers, wood fibers, industrial staples, plaster, and beach sand into my compositions. These materials add depth and texture to the work and allow me to explore new artistic terrain within my practice.