Cover Jude Tiotuico of Industria Edition Gallery examining his creations
Jude Tiotuico of Industria Edition Gallery examining his creations
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Over the past two decades, Filipino designer Jude Tiotuico of Industria Edition Gallery has been exploring the ‘warm’ side of metal
“I’m a designer, not an artist—for me, there’s a big difference between the two,” says Jude Tiotuico, the owner of Industria Edition Gallery. “An artist creates to be understood while a designer has to understand before creating.”
When asked to expound, Tiotuico expressed a unique perspective. “You commission an artist to share his ideas and sensibilities–the whole package of his artistry. Meanwhile, the designer interviews a client or entity to know what they need for this specific instance, for this particular space.”
Over the past two decades, Pampanga-based Tiotuico has gone from subcontracting furniture to running a furniture company with his business partner, who retired two years ago. After their amicable separation, Tiotuico has moved into a new phase. “This is my chance to show who I am as a designer through the Ultima Collection,” he says.
Read on for more insights into the evolution of Jude Tiotuico’s metal creations for Industria Edition Gallery.
In case you missed it: Home tour: A delightful mid-century modern home with Mocha Mousse hues in Marikina, Philippines
Above Jude Tiotuico of Industria Edition Gallery examining his creations
Jude Tiotuico of Industria Edition Gallery examining his creations
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Steel is often seen as a cold, harsh material to work with. Industria Edition Gallery subverts that idea with its dynamic, playful forms. What inspired you to take that route?
Filipinos are very interested in material-forward design. I’m fascinated by metals’ unpredictability, durability and flexibility. We try to experiment with the different patinas of metal to show its warmth–that’s the true nature of metal. We don’t have pieces that are polished and shiny. We take a more natural, grounded approach that mixes well with materials like leather or wood.
How do you infuse your appreciation for metal with functionality in a homeowner’s space?
Metal can have a sensuality that looks like suspended animation. Beyond the techniques and manipulation of metal, I focus on forms that are familiar to people. To do this, I take inspiration from the natural world while staying rooted in mid-century modern design.
I’ve already accepted that no house will be filled with only Industria Edition Gallery items. I’m visualising each piece not to stand out, but to work with different furniture pieces. Instead of creating a sculptural piece that stands out like a sore thumb, I’d like each piece to blend with the homeowner’s personality.
More from Tatler: How Smiling Gecko is rebuilding Cambodian culture with community space ‘The Gong’
Above Compact Loopy Chair by Industria Edition Gallery
Above High-Hammered Side Table by Industria Edition Gallery
Compact Loopy Chair by Industria Edition Gallery
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How do you incorporate sustainability into your design process?
Metal is a recycled material that can be melted into different shapes, with cutouts that can be repurposed in other projects. An example is the tree on display at the Pinyapel booth, which we made out of hammered metal. We’re very old-school with our crude, vintage machines. We still rely on artisans to create each piece.
You have received local and international awards. How do such achievements reflect the evolution of your identity as a designer?
I’m still learning every day. Design is limitless, and I’m not at the pinnacle of where I’d like my designs to be. I want to be known as a person who never stops learning new techniques and being inspired by what I see in the world.
I’ve also learned from designers like Eric Paras and Budji Layug, or with colleagues like Kenneth Cobonpue and Ed Calma. I might not have finished an industrial design course, but the years of experience are more than enough. I’ve also had exposure through shows in Milan and Paris to gain sensitivity and guidance on where to push my designs next.
It takes a lot of humility and intuition to develop restraint. Sometimes, I still ‘over-design,’ but I’ve gotten better at listening to other people’s comments. I don’t always follow their advice but I always gain a new perspective from their feedback.
Jude Tiotuico of Industria Edition Gallery examining his creations
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For you, building a community is essential to design. What lessons have you learned that you want to pass onto the next generation of designers?
Don’t jump the gun. Put yourself in a position where you’re immersed in the essence of timeless pieces like the Monobloc chair. Understand the functionality and structure of the piece. What is the right inclination for a chair? What is the right height for a sofa? People spend hours scrolling through Pinterest and social media websites, focusing on what they like. But does the design work in an actual residential space?
When I was younger, I was so excited to show off my work. But instead of proving my creativity, all I showed was my ego. I wanted to be a sculptural, artsy designer, instead of getting my bearings on the fundamentals of design.
It’s also important to shift your perspective on your idols and the pieces they create. Instead of copying their pieces and looking at the product photos, try to understand their way of thinking.
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About
Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.
Work
Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.
For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.
