Background
After studying art history and visual arts, Marcel Zelmanovitch launched Galerie Diurne in 1982, his studio/exhibition space in the heart of Quartier Latin in Paris. An artist, and accomplished painter, he looks at rugs as though they were blank canvases, on which he can draw his original patterns. Additionally, Marcel wanted to revive Nepal’s artisanal rug-making traditions thanks to his original, one-of-a-kind artworks. Today, Diurne is one of the most sought-after brands for unique rugs, mostly designed by Marcel Zelmanovitch – he has delivered more than 30 collections- alongside special collaborations with contemporary architects and designers.
Signature Style
Like paintings, each design is unique and defined by a distinct abstract feel. The diversity of the designs’ inspiration as well as the variety of artisanal techniques are testament to the vitality of contemporary rug-making driven by Diurne’s creativity.
Showstoppers
Highlights from the very many designs by Marcel Zelmanovitch include the Nandayus, from his first collection, Les Perroquets. “The Nandayus caught my eye: my idea was to make the wool sing, to find a way to make the fibre vibrate through colour,” says Marcel. The Kimono Collection, in intricately woven silk, and the Hikosaburo Rug, inspired by the movement etched on an engraving representing a Kabuki actor; and the n°11 Rug from the Abstraction Brute Collection. This rug was inspired by prehistoric art, namely cave paintings, and designed by Marcel on his iPad using his fingers instead of a brush.