Pierre Yovanovitch at CRITERIA Gallery

Words by Aimee O’Keefe
Photography by JP Vaillancourt
Photography by Alessio Boni

French designer Pierre Yovanovitch is set to showcase a carefully curated collection of pieces at Melbourne’s CRITERIA gallery, marking his first exhibition in Australia.

The eagerly awaited collection from the celebrated interior designer debuts on March 15, 2024, and will be on display until May 2024. The designer’s inaugural exhibition will take place at CRITERIA’s new South Yarra showroom, a leading gallery for contemporary design, headed by creative director Rachael Fry. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an installation that showcases Pierre’s unique furniture designs, all displayed within an interior specially crafted by Pierre himself exclusively for the exhibition.

Pierre Yovanovitch X Criteria Installation Image Credit Sean Fennessy(1)

Pierre’s exhibition will offer a unique insight into his approach to contemporary interior design.

Portrait Of Pierre Yovanovitch At Criteria Credit Sean Fennessy

Pierre’s exhibition will offer a unique insight into his approach to contemporary interior design. “This is really the first time we’ve made our furniture and lighting works available to experience firsthand in Australia,” says Pierre. “In this way, the exhibition serves as a glimpse into my vantage point as a designer, as well as offers an opportunity to feel and see the level of craftsmanship that goes into the works.” The exhibition will present a selection of his acclaimed design pieces, including the Mama Bear Armchair, Asymmetry Armchair, Mindy Sofa, Roze Dining Table and Flare Lamp.

Following a career as a menswear designer, Pierre decided to pursue his passion for interior architecture and design, establishing the Pierre Yovanovitch Mobilier brand in 2021. “This is really a key moment for us to engage with the Australian market, as it’s our first official debut in the region. Rachael’s keen design sensibility and established presence in the area made the partnership with CRITERIA a perfect fit,” says Pierre. He hopes the exhibition reflects a commitment to French savoir faire and storytelling while offering visitors a refreshing experience.

Pierre Yovanovitch X Criteria Installation Image Credit Sean Fennessy

The pieces will be presented as a series of in-situ vignettes, arranged to place them within the context of a residential setting, accompanied by contemporary artworks.

Pierre Yovanovitch X Criteria Installation Image Credit Sean Fennessy(3)

The pieces will be presented as a series of in-situ vignettes, arranged to place them within the context of a residential setting, accompanied by contemporary artworks. “In this way, the show is a nod to my interior architecture practice, which focuses heavily on contemporary art, vintage design, my own furniture and lighting, as well as rich wall colours,” says Pierre.

Other key themes include references to Pierre’s Provençal roots, notably the region’s abundant natural light, rich natural materials and colourways inspired by the surrounding environment, along with the area’s longstanding commitment to craftsmanship.

Design by Pierre Yovanovitch.