Rare Creatures: A Universe of Surrealism
Bangkok-based artist Taras Yoom has once again captivated the art and design world with his latest collection, Rare Creatures. Known for blending the imaginative with the functional, Yoom’s newest series of vases embodies his signature biomorphic surrealism, merging abstract form and practical design into collectible masterpieces. Debuting at Maison&Objet in Paris and PAD in London this fall, the collection invites viewers into Yoom’s surreal Yoomoota universe, where each piece offers a glimpse into a world where art and nature coexist in unexpected harmony.
At the heart of Rare Creatures is Yoom’s Yoomoota universe, an ongoing artistic narrative that explores fantastical worlds, blending biological elements with surreal aesthetics. Each piece in this collection draws from that universe, presenting a unique blend of functionality and imaginative design. With a background in medicine, Yoom’s work often delves into the inner workings of both the human body and natural ecosystems. His ability to weave these complex themes into art has earned him international acclaim, with features in prestigious publications like Elle Decor Italy and Designboom.
Rare Creatures stands out not only for its aesthetic appeal but for the intricate stories behind each creation. In this collection, the vases are not just vessels for flowers; they become active participants in a narrative where the lines between life and art blur.
The Pieces: “Through Animal” and “Prehand”
The Rare Creatures collection consists of two primary pieces: Through Animal and Prehand. Each vase showcases Yoom’s ability to infuse his objects with both whimsy and depth, transforming ordinary forms into works of art with a surreal twist.
The first piece, Through Animal, takes the form of a whimsical cow with a long neck and a smooth white surface decorated with blue spots. Gold accents on the legs, neck, and tail give the vase an elegant touch, while the two flower openings—a larger one on the neck and a smaller one on the tail—make it both functional and decorative. In Yoom’s Yoomoota universe, this vase represents a hollow creature from the Void planet, whose identity is shaped by the flowers it holds. Much like a cow interacts with grass, Through Animal interacts with flowers, though instead of consuming them, it mirrors their essence, adding an intriguing layer of symbolism.
On the other hand, Prehand is a minimalist creation from the planet of Beginnings, where life’s earliest forms are imagined and brought to life. This vase, while simpler in appearance, has a striking feature—a “hand” that extends from its body, gently cradling the flowers. This hand also casts a soft, directed light, breathing life into the piece and emphasizing its relationship with its surroundings. The piece’s combination of resin and glass materials adds a delicate, visual balance between weight and lightness.
Craftsmanship and Design
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Yoom’s vases are as much a testament to his craftsmanship as they are to his creativity. Prehand is made from white UV-curable photopolymer resin and glass, a combination that enhances its visual lightness while maintaining durability. Through Animal is similarly crafted from durable resin, but with a glossy finish achieved through white acrylic paint and a clear lacquer. The result is a water-resistant, smooth surface that resists scratches, ensuring the vase retains its elegance even in daily use.
In keeping with Yoom’s reputation for exclusivity, the Rare Creatures collection is being released in limited quantities: only 50 Prehand vases and 30 Through Animal pieces will be made available worldwide. This limited release underscores the collection’s status as not just functional art, but as rare collectibles for discerning art enthusiasts.
All images courtesy of Taras Yoom, shared with permission
Taras Yoom website: https://yoomoota.com/
