Rajan Bijlani, a London-based collector, celebrates the stories behind vintage design pieces, having amassed around 500 works primarily from Chandigarh’s modernist period. He recently opened his historic townhouse for the “Syncretic Voices” exhibition and shares insights on collecting and must-see shows this month.
Rajan Bijlani, a collector based in London, embraces the imperfections in design pieces, viewing them as narratives: “It’s akin to storytelling,” he expresses. Bijlani’s passion for collecting began 20 years ago during a trip to Chandigarh, where he became captivated by the modernist designs of Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret. To date, he has acquired around 500 pieces, mostly crafted from teak and rosewood, which beautifully complement his collection of abstract artworks. Recently, Bijlani opened his historic townhouse, Fonthill Pottery, to the public for the exhibition “Syncretic Voices,” showcasing works from six contemporary artists until November 1. Key aspects of his collection journey include: – Origins: The collection was inspired by his encounter with Chandigarh’s architecture and the furniture’s beauty and functionality, sparking his desire to preserve design history in his home. – Philosophy: Bijlani seeks designs that resonate with history and storytelling, noting that vintage pieces carry a certain life essence. Following this philosophy, he values pieces that engage in dialogue between their historical roots and contemporary art. – Featured Work: A patinated zinc coffee table serves as a focal point in his home, reflecting the aesthetic duality of history and luxury through its unique surface and repairs reminiscent of original Chandigarh designs. – New Discoveries: Bijlani often discovers new artists through friendships, highlighting the influence of connections in expanding his collection and understanding of art. Currently, he is excited about works from Harminder Judge and Vipeksha Gupta for their expressive and meditative qualities. – Collecting Philosophy: Bijlani advises aspiring collectors to follow their instincts and avoid trends imposed by others to develop a collection that truly reflects their personal taste. Must-see exhibitions this month include: 1. “Man Ray in Paris” by Larkin Erdmann. 2. “The Imaginary Institution of India: Art 1975 – 1998” at the Barbican. 3. “Lights on 212” curated by Valerio Polimeno at Galerie Chastel Marechal. Lastly, Bijlani’s aim for his collection is to engage visitors in meaningful conversation about art and design, preserving a legacy that blends historic and contemporary narratives.
Rajan Bijlani is a prominent modernist collector based in London, with a particular focus on furniture from Chandigarh, which was designed by legendary architect Le Corbusier and his cousin, Pierre Jeanneret. Bijlani’s collection reflects his appreciation for the rich narratives embedded in the design, stemming from his admiration of the city’s architecture. By opening his townhouse for public exhibitions, he aims to share his passion for design and contemporary art with a wider audience.
Rajan Bijlani’s journey as a collector exemplifies a deep appreciation for the intersection of history and art. His collection reveals not just an aesthetic preference but a narrative that speaks to personal experiences and the stories behind each piece. Bijlani’s advice encourages others to cultivate their unique tastes rather than conform to trends, fostering authentic personal collections.
Original Source: www.culturedmag.com