Cover Kenneth Cobonpue and Pratt Institute president Frances Bronet (Photo: Joseph Pascual)
Kenneth Cobonpue and Pratt Institute president Frances Bronet (Photo: Joseph Pascual)
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Tatler Asia’s Most Influential 2022 honouree Kenneth Cobonpue is not only a respected and award-winning designer but a mentor who inspires today’s generation of artisans
Award-winning industrial designer and manufacturer Kenneth Cobonpue recently earned the distinction of being one of the honourees of his alma mater, Pratt Institute. On November 9, Cobonpue will formally be awarded as part of Pratt Legends 2023, which celebrates remarkable alumni from the distinguished educational institution for artists, designers, architects, and creative thinkers.
“We are thrilled to host Legends 2023 and pay tribute to these three exceptional honorees, who are also esteemed Pratt alumni and have made remarkable and responsible contributions to the creative world,” said Pratt President Frances Bronet. “This event underscores our
commitment to fostering diversity and providing opportunities for talented individuals to pursue
their educational dreams. We invite everyone to join us in this celebration of creativity and
philanthropy.”
Read also: How these Pratt Institute alumni are shaping the future of Filipino architecture and design
Above Kenneth Cobonpue (Photo: Smart Infinity)
Kenneth Cobonpue (Photo: Smart Infinity)
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After graduating from Pratt Institute, Cobonpue honed his craft in Italy and Germany before returning to the Philippines in 1995. He founded his eponymous brand in 1998, growing to over 300 employees and artisans based in Cebu, his hometown, with global offices and showrooms. Praised for their fusion of nature, craftsmanship, and technology, his designs reached international acclaim. A testament to this is his being awarded the Most Creative Force during the 10th Philippine Tatler Ball in 2011, Designer of the Year in the first edition of Maison et Objet Asia in 2014, Ani ng Dangal recognition for international achievement in visual arts from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts in 2015, and his various collections winning top prizes and distinguished by reputable architecture and design publications. In 2020, he received the highest honour of the Cultural Center of the Philippines for his contributions to Filipino culture and design.
What projects in the last two years are you most proud of? Why?
My Dolce bed won an award at the High Point Market, North Carolina, the largest exhibition in the USA, and a Best Seating Award for the Peacock Chair, beating over 3000 entries at the Las Vegas Design and Hospitality Show in the USA.
What challenges do you see now in your respective industry? How do you intend to help address these challenges?
The average age of the Filipino weaver, carver and craftsman is 50 years old. Their children no longer want to work with their hands. Because of this, our rich tradition of craftsmanship and manufacturing industries will eventually die. We must develop the next generation of designers who will give these artisans a suitable means of living. I lecture worldwide, mentor apprentices, and teach in different design schools in the hope of inspiring young people to use our resources and skills so it become not only a means of employment but a source of pride for the country.
What can you say to those who want to follow in your footsteps?
Every person has a unique story to share with the world. We all have to find it. We do that by looking deep within us, learning as much as possible from other disciplines, studying different cultures and perfecting our craft. It can take years of hard work filled with failures, but when you find your place in the world, a lifetime may not even be enough to tell your story.
Above Kenneth Cobonpue
Kenneth Cobonpue
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Who do you look up to for guidance, inspiration or mentorship?
I am inspired by my mother, who taught me to follow my heart, work with passion and leave everything to the Ultimate Creator.
What are your plans for the coming years, and what keeps you going?
We are continually expanding the brand in Europe and Asia and returning to the international show circuit. I am also going into limited-edition collectables and art. One of them is a fascinating project to create limited edition figures of Filipino myths and legends called ALAMAT. Inspired by stories passed from our ancestors to us, these characters form part of our heritage and tradition and must be retold today. We are also continually adding products to our online site called kcurated.ph with gift items I designed or chose.
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