CEDIT - ceramiche d'italia chimera collection inspired by mythological hybrids

as an amalgamation of inspiration, the CEDIT – ceramiche d’italia chimera is a collection of highly decorative ceramic tiles. they are the unique result of the florim group’s technological research and artist elena salmistraro’s creative flair. the stoneware slabs define completely original expression, where each piece distinguishes an individual, symbolic creation.

all images courtesy of florim

CEDIT – ceramiche d’italia’s chimera collection builds upon the communicative power of artist elena salmistraro. the unique designs are inspired by its namesake – the chimera, which was a hybrid four-legged creature in greek mythology, that had the appearance of a lion and dragon with a goat’s head extending up from its back. as a term used in biology and zoology, chimera refers to the fusion between different units to originate a new identity. the stoneware does exactly that; they define an imaginary combination of different creatures and styles.

the chimera collection is created using an innovative 3D technology, which reproduces the texture of leathers and fabrics through a striking carved or raised design. this creates a highly tactile layered effect that invites sensory enjoyment of those using and inhabiting the interior space. the process also produces the large porcelain slabs with a new level of color brightness.

the collection is available in four different graphic themes and color codes: emphatia, radici, ritmo and colore. empatia blends the distinct and colorful shapes of clown faces with art deco references; radici mimics the textures of different types of leather; ritmo distinguishes a dialogue between the texture of fabric and the abstract designs of gunta stölzl and anni albers; and colore juxtaposes a spotted base with the dense presence of repeated silhouettes. the range can then be completed with a series of neutral continuous coverings to act as a backdrop for the expressive tiles.

‘the collection is an introspective work focusing on my life and the way I design. chimera is like a book with four different chapters: I set out to differentiate these graphic motifs to create four totally different stories. the collaboration with CEDIT has been very stimulating; it was a wonderful challenge that allowed us, together, to create something new, experimental and fascinating,’ concludes the artist elena salmistraro.