Taller Batán: Discovered fragments of the wood
PRODUCTION: Ademán
product photography:
Taller Batán
In a world where industry seems to prevail, a Mexican craft workshop has managed to stand out for its unusual and admirable focus on sustainability and respect for nature. Taller Batán, founded by passionate friends Sebastian Cappiello from Caracas, Venezuela, and Marco Cordero from Mexico City, has flourished as a benchmark of creativity and originality, and its unique philosophy is evident in each of its pieces.
The distinctive feature that defines Taller Batán is its firm commitment to never cut a single tree. Instead of resorting to wood logging, these skillful artisans find their inspiration in nature itself and dedicate themselves to giving new life to fallen wood. Each product that emerges from their skilled hands is the result of a piece of wood they have discovered, and it is this unprecedented approach that infuses authenticity and charm into each of their creations.
Every object that leaves the workshop is unique, not only in its design and finish but also in size. Following their philosophy, each piece is shaped by the natural form of the wood fragment they have discovered. Thus, Taller Batán not only pays homage to the majesty of trees but also gives them a second life, transforming them into functional and artistic works that bear witness to the power and beauty of nature.
Taller Batán has found its distinctive style by immersing itself in the ancient Japanese technique of Shou Sugi Ban, also known as Yakisugi. This ancestral method of burning wood has been perfected by the talented artisans of the workshop, resulting in an astonishing effect on the wood: a dark and enigmatic canvas, reflecting their skill and passion.
In an interview for Ademán, Marco shared fascinating details behind this surprising technique, highlighting the use of wood mainly from the pine, cedar, and cypress families. The process begins with the ignition of a fire at the bottom and the application of a blowtorch to burn the wood. Then, with careful brushing and the application of natural oil, the wood undergoes a complete transformation, acquiring a completely black tone and exceptional resistance to external elements.
Taller Batán invites us to pause and appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of what nature can offer by giving new life to fallen wood. Their pioneering and sustainable approach is a powerful reminder that creativity and respect for our environment can coexist harmoniously. Each work that emerges from their skilled hands is a testament to the majesty of trees and a celebration of nature in its most authentic form.
INTERVIEWER
How would you describe a woodland ?
sebastian ciappello
I would describe a woodland as the most beautiful ecosystem of our planet, characterized by the green color, with all his variants through the seasons. Forests are the most important part of our ecosystem, essential to many of the things we need go function as society. My relationship with the woodlands is particularly strong and emotional as our whole project exists around the forest of Donato Guerra, Estado de México, where are taller is, and where are wood comes from.
INTERVIEWER
Have you ever built a ‘tree house’ ?
sebastian ciappello
I have actually never built a tree house, but it’s something I’ve in mind, and with our experience with the taller I’m sure I’ll make a pretty cool one on day. I’m just don’t know if one for a project, for myself or maybe better to wait for the day I’ve kids.
INTERVIEWER
What were the holidays like for you growing up ?
sebastian ciappello
My holidays were really nice, always with my family, and some of his best friends, which after the years became my family too. Big tables with great food, conversations, and a lot of laughing and loving.
How would you describe a woodland ?
sebastian ciappello
I would describe a woodland as the most beautiful ecosystem of our planet, characterized by the green color, with all his variants through the seasons. Forests are the most important part of our ecosystem, essential to many of the things we need go function as society. My relationship with the woodlands is particularly strong and emotional as our whole project exists around the forest of Donato Guerra, Estado de México, where are taller is, and where are wood comes from.
INTERVIEWER
Have you ever built a ‘tree house’ ?
sebastian ciappello
I have actually never built a tree house, but it’s something I’ve in mind, and with our experience with the taller I’m sure I’ll make a pretty cool one on day. I’m just don’t know if one for a project, for myself or maybe better to wait for the day I’ve kids.
INTERVIEWER
What were the holidays like for you growing up ?
sebastian ciappello
My holidays were really nice, always with my family, and some of his best friends, which after the years became my family too. Big tables with great food, conversations, and a lot of laughing and loving.