Philia
Magazine
Maria Loram 5 Picks From Philia Collection
Maria Loram is a ceramic artist based in California whose practice explores the space between the organic and the cosmic through sculptural and functional ceramic works. Born in Russia and shaped by a multidisciplinary background spanning science, linguistics, yoga, and visual art, her work is deeply informed by Eastern philosophies, wabi-sabi aesthetics, and an ongoing fascination with material transformation.
Working with clay, paper, and experimental glaze techniques, Loram creates textured forms that evoke weathered landscapes, celestial surfaces, and artifacts shaped by time. Her process combines wheel throwing, handbuilding, glaze research, and painterly surface experimentation, resulting in pieces that feel both minimal and emotionally resonant.
Since returning to ceramics in 2022, Loram’s work has been exhibited internationally and featured through galleries and collections across the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe. Alongside her studio practice, she has participated in artist residencies, taught workshops focused on glazes and textures, and continues to explore ceramics as a language of touch, impermanence, and quiet contemplation.
Chaeyoung Lee Picks From Philia Collection
Chaeyoung Lee is a furniture and object designer based in Seoul. After studying Woodworking & Furniture Design and Aesthetics of Art, she began developing a craft-based design practice driven by narrative and purpose.
Her work seeks to translate abstract thoughts into tangible visual and tactile experiences. Through furniture and objects, she gives form to moments of life and explores the attitudes embodied within those forms.
Her practice continues to expand as a way of experiencing life and the world through both everyday and artistic acts.
Atelier V&F
Atelier V&F was co-founded by Chen Furong and Vega Zaishi Wang. Their professional background and artistic upbringing shape the character of Atelier V&F. Its work tries to break the divide of territories and cultures, with an inclusive narrative to interpret aesthetics and functionality. The two designers’ poetics of life and living, their respect for different materials’ true nature, and their unceasing pursuit of exquisite craftsmanship instill vitality into Atelier V&F’s works — from artistic sculptures, installations, and spaces to practical and utilitarian objects. As a married couple, Vega and Furong’s collaborative works embrace the non-utilitarian and pure beauty, and are thus emotionally powerful.
Alva Design
ALVA Design is a Brazilian furniture and object design studio founded by siblings Marcelo Alvarenga and Susana Bastos. Drawing from backgrounds in architecture, fine arts, and fashion, the duo develops a poetic design language that balances structure and fluidity, functionality and emotion.
Rooted in the cultural landscape and craft traditions of Minas Gerais, their work is distinguished by sculptural forms, refined materiality, and a strong sense of atmosphere. Since its founding, ALVA has become a prominent voice in contemporary Brazilian design, creating furniture, objects, and creative projects that celebrate craftsmanship, intimacy, and the poetry of everyday life.
Alva Design Picks From Philia Collection
ALVA Design is a Brazilian design studio founded by siblings Marcelo Alvarenga and Susana Bastos. Drawing from backgrounds in architecture, fine arts, and fashion, the duo creates furniture and objects that balance structure and spontaneity, functionality and emotion.
Rooted in the cultural landscape of Minas Gerais, their work is guided by a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, materiality, and storytelling. Through a multidisciplinary approach, ALVA develops sculptural pieces distinguished by refined details and a poetic sensibility that explores the relationship between objects, space, and everyday life.
Today, ALVA stands as a distinctive voice in contemporary Brazilian design, creating timeless works that evoke intimacy, atmosphere, and human connection.
