Design Map · Eindhoven
Scarlet Flowers
Graduation project by Aleksandra Alehina at Design Academy Eindhoven, 2026. Shown during Dutch Design Week in Eindhoven on Design Map, location F5.
‘Scarlet Flowers’ is a sound and ceramic installation which explores subdued forms of female communication under patriarchal authority. From each conical piece, made of red stoneware in a shape that merges a megaphone with an imperial vase, a lively melody arises. These tunes are based on chastushka, an improvised genre of folk verse that emerged in the last half of the 19th century, which was once used for social commentary. Upon closer inspection, laser-engraved ornaments, drawn from Russian cross-stitch embroidery tradition, reveal a story of female endurance told through symbols such as rabbits and horses. Aleksandra Alehina recognises the relevance of encrypted imagery as a vessel for communication where ambiguous language becomes necessary. The project traces and recreates forms of womanly expression which have historically concealed meaning within craft and poetry. A subtle lexicon that will burst with details when deciphered with care.