Designer POV Kameh

Level Shoes has commissioned Dubai-based design brand KAMEH for the second instalment of their Objects of Design series.

KAMEH’s work touches on themes of nature and the human self. Realised through local craftsmanship, his oeuvre of complex interior pieces straddles the line between decorative art and functional design.

For Objects of Design, KAMEH has reimagined the perfect white box. Seemingly carved out of a single slab of stone, the creation evokes both the rough facades of natural rock formations and the travertine masterpieces of modern sculptors.

In addition to the collectible, a new work by KAMEH has been installed in the newly reopened Trends area in Level Shoes Dubai Mall. The work celebrates the UAE’s culture and craftsmanship with its inspirations and sculpted form.

Below, the enigmatic designer shares his creative process for both of his commissioned works.

LEVEL SHOES X KAMEH

Bespoke shoe box

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“Inspiration came from the perfect white box.”

Level Shoes commissioned you to create an exclusive collectible. What was your inspiration and creative process for it?

I wanted to create a box that people can use for their special sneakers; a box that can be used as part of their interior; a box that can be displayed. Inspiration came from the perfect white box, which I wanted to make my way: imperfectly perfect.

Can you walk us through how it was made and what is it made of?

It’s made of metal, which reminds me of the human bones. Styrofoam fills the body and paint is like the skin we are in to protect the box from the hardness of the world we are living in.

How do you envision the box to be stored?

Some of us keep shoes in the boxes and some don’t. However, I’m pretty sure we all have a special pair of shoes that deserves a special box. This is a collectible that people can use as decoration or an art object in their interior.

Your work also sits within the newly reopened Trends area in Level Shoes Dubai Mall. What do you hope the piece will bring to the space?

Togetherness. I remember my first conversation with Level Shoes CEO Elisa Bruno and how we both connected on the subject of bringing people together, which Level Shoes does perfectly. I hope my new work brings people together in the space. They can get together, have a meaningful conversation, connect, and feel like it’s a home away from home.

While you prefer to remain anonymous, your choice of footwear is clear: sneakers. Which sneakers feature in your current rotation and which styles do you hope to get your hands on?

Guess what? It’s always white sneakers. Currently, my rotation features in Maison Margiela, Prada, and Balenciaga. I’m hoping to get a pair of perfect white sneakers from Chanel.

What’s next for KAMEH?

I’m currently working on my solo show and a new collection that I will be launching in Dubai in November.