This week’s rug news includes a focus on artists Ryan Kirby and Norman Wyatt Jr., designers Jenna Morrow and Meredith Heron, and new rugs inspired by Japan’s coastline.
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Rugs America has partnered with two well-known artists to create new rug lines.
First off is wildlife artist Ryan Kirby whose artwork captures the beauty of wild rivers, sunsets and creatures that can now be explored through a brand-new collection of rug designs.
“My goal is to enhance the atmosphere of the home, office or hunt camp and broaden the horizons of hunters and anglers all over the world,” said Kirby.
Each rug in the collection is designed to bring the great outdoors indoors. From majestic landscapes to awe-inspiring wildlife inspired by adventures throughout the country, these rugs transform floors into works of art.
“Partnering with Ryan is an exciting opportunity for Rugs America,” said President Aaron Hakimian. “His artwork resonates with so many people, and we are thrilled to bring his stunning wildlife imagery into homes across the country. This collection is a celebration of nature, artistry and the joy of creating beautiful living spaces.”
Designer and artist Norman Wyatt Jr. has also collaborated on a new collection with Rugs America. After making a name for himself in the design industry, Wyatt became known for his ability to merge textures and patterns to bring serenity and elegance into living spaces.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with Norman,” said Hakimian. “His artistic approach aligns perfectly with our commitment to quality and innovation. Together, we are creating a collection that will resonate with design enthusiasts and homeowners alike, making art accessible in a whole new way.”
The new collection will feature a variety of styles and patterns that reflect Wyatt’s artistic flair. Known for his evocative use of color, texture and modern design, he has captivated art lovers around the world. Now, he extends his creative expertise into soft home goods with this line of rugs.
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Designer Meredith Heron is offering three new rugs that draw their inspiration from Japanese oceanic themes, blending seaside patterns with the culture’s deep ties to water.
“From coastal fishing traditions to the contemplative qualities of zen water gardens, these influences merge in contemporary rugs that bring fluidity to modern homes,” Heron said.
Heron said her designs capture both the sea’s natural movement and its meditative qualities, featuring colors that range from deep navy blues to soft seafoam greens – creating pieces that feel both grounded and dynamic in today’s living spaces.
Sandtracks
The Sandtracks rug is offered in both wool and silk ground, with a raised design in opposing material. The silk ground gives this rug a natural ombre, while the wool ground gives the raised areas definition.
Koi
From afar, the Koi rug pattern appears like stripes, but upon closer review, several Koi fish are hidden in the stripes. Heron said her inspiration for this pattern came from Japanese watercolor paintings made by dragging the paint across a page. This rug is available in one stocked colorway and four custom colorways. It is hand-knotted on looms in India and is suitable for medium and high-traffic areas. The majority of this rug is pure wool, with small accents of viscose to make the stripes and Koi fish appear to shimmer.
Naoshima
The Naoshima rug’s sweeping pattern draws the eye around the room, making the room feel bigger, according to Heron. The production team used new technology to create a very natural ombré effect in the ground of this rug. This rug is named after an island town in the Seto Inland Sea and the pattern reflects stylized clouds. Naoshima is available in one stocked colorway and four custom colorways.
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Kas Rugs will be hosting a designer talk and display at the upcoming spring High Point Market with Jenna Morrow, the founder and Principal Designer of Morrow Design Studios and a go-to influencer in the design space.
Passionate about creating sensory-driven spaces, Morrow said she draws inspiration from art, writing and nature to design environments that promote well-being.
Morrow opened her studio in 2021 following an intense battle with postpartum anxiety. A Philadelphia native, she brings this perspective and her design expertise into every project, leaving her clients with distinctive and experiential spaces in their homes.
The designer talk with Morrow will happen on Sunday, April 27th from 1-3 p.m. in the Kas showroom in IHFC G270.
The company has also invited several artists who will be painting live throughout the market
Founded in 1981 by Rao Yarlagadda and his wife Kas, the company now carries 50 curated collections of handmade and machine-made rugs, including six indoor/outdoor collections.
