Kenneth Cobonpue (born December 16, 1968) is a Filipino industrial designer known for his unique designs integrating natural materials through innovative handmade production processes.[2] He began his design career after his studies in Industrial Design in New York, which led him to apprenticeships and further studies in Italy and Germany.
Cobonpue designs have appeared in full-length films such as Ocean's 13 and CSI Miami while his roster of clientele includes Hollywood celebrities and members of royalty like Queen Sofía of Spain, Queen Rania of Jordan, and former couple Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt.[3]TIME Magazine has called him “rattan’s first great virtuoso."[4]
Career
Interior Crafts of the Islands, Inc. (I.C.I)
After a series of further studies and apprentices abroad, Kenneth moved back to Cebu in 1996 to help manage their family business founded by his mother, Betty Chen Cobonpue, in 1972. Upon managing the business, Kenneth discovered that by the use of natural fibers and materials as a medium, modern design could have a new face.[4]
Government Involvement
In March 2017, Cobonpue was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as co-chairperson of the National Economic and Development Authority Regional Development Council for Central Visayas.[5] The following year, he became the Creative Director for the Creative Economy Council of the Philippines. He was also assigned as the Private Sector Representative for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for the Design Advisory Council in 2019.
Design Education and Mentorship for Young Designers
In 2005, Cobonpue founded the Industrial Design Program of the University of the Philippines in Cebu. He also became the chairman and consultant of the Department of Industrial Design at the School of Design and Arts, De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde in 2014.[6]
Maison et Objet's Asian Designer of the Year
Kenneth Cobonpue was named the first Maison et Objet Designer of the Year for Asia in 2014. The Filipino creative has been awarded the title for his contributions and impact in the field furniture and design—most notably for developing and manufacturing woven rattan furniture for indoor and outdoor use.[7]
Gawad sa Sining Award for Design
He was honored with the Gawad sa Sining Award 2020, the highest distinction given by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) to Filipino artists for their contributions to the Philippine Arts and Culture scene. Cobonpue is the first recipient of the award in the field of design.[8]
Pratt Legends
Kenneth Cobonpue was awarded the Pratt Legends Award of 2023 by the Pratt Institute New York. Cobonpue was recognized for his significant contributions to the global furniture and design industry. Pratt Legends 2023 honorees awarded alongside him include architect Edward Mazria, and artist Kay WalkingStick.[9]
The Legends Awards celebrate distinguished individuals and corporations in the world of art and design, whose notable works and accomplishments resonate with the values and principles upheld by Pratt Institute of New York. Past Legends honorees include Tommy Hilfiger, Marc Jacobs, Nina Campbell, and Santiago Calatrava.[10]
Timeline of collections
Cobonpue on a 2021 stamp of Philippines
1980 – Lotus (patented)
1998 – Yin Yang – Cobonpue's first design.
1999 – Balou
2000 – Pigalle, La Luna
2001 – Voyage
2002 – Yoda, Croissant, Kabuki, Lulu
2003 – Tilt, Matilda, Amaya, Dimple, Lolita, Terra
2018 – Star Wars Collection – in collaboration with the Disney Company Philippines[11][12]
2022 – Dolce, Corda, Gingko
2023 – Spin
Furniture Awards
2003 GOOD DESIGN AWARD, ASEAN Design Collection, Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organization – Voyage Bed and Yin & Yang Armchair
2004 FIRST PRIZE, Open Design Category, Singapore International Furniture Design Competition – Croissant Collection
2004 GOOD DESIGN AWARD, ASEAN Design Collection, Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organization – Pigalle Easy Armchair, Kabuki Cabinet, One Night Stand Sofa, CUC Me Screen
2005 DESIGN FOR ASIA AWARD, Business of Design Week by Hong Kong Design Centre – Lolah Collection
2005 DESIGN EXCELLENCE AWARD, Best Seating, 9th Annual IIDA/HD Product Competition – Lolah Outdoor and Dimple Outdoor
2005 OUTSTANDING DESIGN, High Point Show – Balou Outdoor
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