Raul De Lara

Raul De Lara, a Mexican-born sculptor now based in New York combines his culture with his artistry. His work often serves as a dialogue between folklore, rituals, and tangible objects. De Lara’s creative journey is deeply influenced by the intertwining cultural landscapes of Mexico and the United States, leading him to explore complex themes of nationality and identity. His latest commissioned piece for Hermès' Madison Avenue flagship blends the beauty of nature with the lasting quality of metal.

The centrepiece of this collaboration is a cast bronze vase, which originated from a white oak log where De Lara hand-turned his original design. This piece is a decorative item that holds wooden leaves animated throughout the window display. The vase signifies a dialogue between the organic and the crafted, exploring how materials change yet retain their inherent essence over time.

“For this particular window, I was inspired by my favorite tree in Central Park. Every fall, I go visit him for inspiration as it gives off the most beautiful leaves. I collected 6 of them and used their shape to create the large wooden leaves you see at Hermes. I used a variety of wood species to capture Fall’s color range. I was also inspired by the bronze sculptures and the scattered patina on copper architectural elements around the park. This inspiration led me to think on how to bring that patina color onto the surface of my wooden vase.” — Raul De Lara

This detail illustrates how fleeting moments in nature can be captured and immortalised through art. The transformation from a raw wooden log to a robust, enduring surface speaks to the artist's intention to create a tangible connection between the temporary and the permanent, encouraging viewers to reflect on the passage of time and the beauty within it. In achieving the final look of the vase, the collaboration between De Lara and the Rock Tavern team involved a few different techniques, including lost-wax casting. The finishing process accentuated the vase's texture, allowing it to tell its story through the qualities of both wood and metal. By sandblasting the surface, the varying levels of texture and detail were seamlessly translated from the original, highlighting the craftsmanship while honouring De Lara's original vision.