Cover Local artist Tiffany Tan (Lovage) with her Technogym Bench design. Images: Courtesy of Tiffany Tan and Technogym

The work of Singaporean artist Tiffany Tan (also known as Lovage), this customised Technogym Bench combines a beautiful fusion of art and wellness while representing elements of Singapore in its handpainted design

Every movement has a purpose—our bodies not only move and respond to the needs of our daily activities but also to the athletic feats that we accomplish and challenge ourselves to complete, whether it be through a daily run or an intensive workout at the gym. This notion of purposeful movement inspired the Art That Moves You campaign, a local initiative by Italian wellness company Technogym that aims to connect the physical and emotional sides of the wellness lifestyle through artistic collaborations with the intent to inspire more conversations and reflect on what wellness means to each of us. The first theme in this campaign series is “Connection”, which speaks to how we want to feel our best when exercising, which means choosing spaces and places that make us feel most connected to our surroundings.

As a global leader in wellness, Technogym has served as the official supplier for the last eight Olympic Games, including the upcoming Paris Olympics in 2024. Since its establishment in 1993, Technogym has steadily gained recognition and popularity as a purveyor of well-designed equipment that complements your lifestyle, whether as a professional athlete or as a wellness enthusiast eager to have elements of your favourite workout routines in your home. It also notably launched a limited-edition series with Dior last year, showcasing yet again the ways fitness equipment can become a beautiful part of your home.

Don’t miss: Technogym Redefines the Idea of Home Workouts With Sleek, Smart Fitness Equipment

Also known by her artist name Tiffany Lovage, the local artist Tiffany Tan enjoys fusing her love of botany into her work, and that can be seen in this custom Technogym Bench design that she has hand-painted. To date, Tan has collaborated with a wide range of local and global clients, including Nike, the National Arts Council, Mercedes, and many more. 

This one-of-a-kind Technogym Bench will soon be presented to the Best Bespoke Concept winner at the 2023 edition of the Tatler Homes Design Awards - Singapore; the winners will soon be announced during an awards presentation at the Pan Pacific Orchard. Here, Tan shares more about her inspirations and the creative process behind this Technogym collaboration. 

In what ways does the Art That Moves You Campaign personally connect with your life and artistic endeavours? 

There is an intricate link between physical and emotional health that is oftentimes not synonymously addressed. Art moves the soul and I am, too, currently on a journey to bridge my artistic pursuits with an overall wellness, recognising the importance of intertwining the two.

How does the artwork on the bench reflect the concept of connectedness and the feeling of being connected to one's surroundings during a workout or wellness activity? 

The artwork on the Technogym Bench pays homage to Chinese porcelain, which is familiar to me and many others. It evokes a sense of nostalgia while incorporating scenes from the streets of Singapore. This enhances the experience of engaging in a workout or wellness activity by creating a connection to one's surroundings.

Read more: Building a Home Gym? Here’s How Technogym Can Help You Get Started Seamlessly

Tatler Asia
Above Initial stages of the artwork on the Technogym Bench
Tatler Asia
Above Tan working on the intricate details of the artwork on the Technogym Bench

The artwork on the Technogym Bench features intricate motifs of plants and architectural details of Singapore landmarks. How and why did you choose to incorporate these elements?

The artwork takes inspiration from Chinese porcelain, which has been present in Singapore through centuries of trade. The illustrated buildings, such as the former Customs House, Old Hill Street Police Station, and Lau Pa Sat, represent Singapore's history as a trading port. These buildings played crucial roles in maintaining law and order, conducting customs operations, and serving as vibrant marketplaces. 

The artwork also acknowledges the warehouses along the Singapore River, which were part of the Straits of Malacca trade route and add to Singapore’s intriguing historical context as a trading hub. Additionally, the artwork includes intricate motifs of local plants like the national flower Vanda Miss Joaquim, Bougainvilleas, Morning glories, and Tembusu trees. These botanical elements evoke childhood memories and showcase the vibrant natural greenery found in Singapore.

Tatler Asia
Above Details of the artwork on the Technogym Bench

How did you integrate the organic and structural aspects of Singapore's Garden City into your artwork for the Technogym Bench?

I accomplished this by utilising various line-work techniques. The botanical elements, representing the organic essence of Singapore’s Garden City, are portrayed with flowing and natural lines. In contrast, the structured buildings are depicted with more rigid and geometric lines. However, despite their differences, the artwork maintains a sense of harmony and unity through a shared style and colour scheme.

In case you missed it: Technogym founder Nerio Alessandri is on a mission to get people more active

How did you ensure that your artwork seamlessly integrates with the overall design and aesthetics of a home?

Considering the familiarity and resonance of Chinese porcelain in a home environment, it felt appropriate to incorporate this inspired artwork into the sleek design of the Technogym Bench. The artwork triggers a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of cherished scenes within a home, enhancing the bench's overall appeal. This makes it an ideal addition to any home setting.

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