Curating the Future: Inside Collectible Design Fair
Collectible, the brainchild of Clélie Debehault and Liv Vaisberg, is a vibrant celebration of creativity where art, architecture, and contemporary collectible design come together in unexpected ways. With events in Brussels and New York, it champions experimental ideas and fosters global connections, reimagining what a design fair can truly be.
by Damla Yıldırım I photography by Simon Leung
Collectible is not a typical design event. It is a masterfully curated homage to contemporary collectible design, a field that is as much about pushing boundaries as it is about celebrating craftsmanship.
Born from a shared vision, Collectible was conceived as a platform to dissolve the traditional silos of design, architecture, and art. “We wanted to challenge conventions,” Clélie Debehault explains, her tone equal parts passionate and assured. “Our goal was to spotlight pieces that transcend functionality, designs that are as conceptual and experimental as they are significant.”
The fair’s ethos is rooted in promoting innovative practices and avant-garde creations, but it’s not just about the objects themselves. “We are inspired by how designers respond to societal shifts and redefine sustainability,” Liv Vaisberg adds. This perspective has guided Collectible’s evolution, expanding from its flagship event in Brussels every March to a second annual edition in New York each September. “The American market is incredibly dynamic,” she notes. “By creating a bridge between Europe and the U.S., we’re fostering a transatlantic dialogue that enriches both design communities.”
Curating with Precision
Unlike many design fairs, Collectible is unapologetically selective. Its curatorial rigor ensures that every piece tells a story, reflecting a moment in time while inviting deeper contemplation. “We’re not interested in mass production or historical pieces,” Clélie emphasizes. “Our focus is on contemporary creations that resonate with today’s cultural and creative zeitgeist.”
This commitment to curation extends to the fair’s aesthetic and logistical DNA. Every exhibitor is handpicked through a meticulous process involving an esteemed selection committee. “We spend the year traveling, immersing ourselves in the design landscape,” Liv explains. “From visiting studios to engaging with interior architects, critics, and emerging talents, our mission is to uncover voices that are shaping the future of collectible design.”
The result is a fair that feels more like an immersive exhibition than a transactional marketplace. Here, functionality meets artistry in a way that captivates even the most discerning audiences. “It’s about creating an environment where the dialogue between object and observer is as dynamic as the designs themselves,” Clélie adds.
Challenges and Creative Daring
Yet, innovation often comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most persistent is balancing commercial viability with artistic integrity. “Supporting experimental work sometimes means championing designs that aren’t immediately marketable,” Liv admits. “But we believe it’s essential to maintain the fair’s identity and its role as a catalyst for creative daring.” This delicate balancing act underscores their belief in fostering a culture that values risk-taking.
Part of what makes Collectible so distinctive is its ability to reimagine what a design fair can be. For Clélie and Liv, the goal is not just to showcase objects but to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and inspire. “A fair should do more than sell,” Debehault insists. “It should tell stories and spark connections.”
To this end, Collectible has introduced initiatives that elevate the visitor experience. Thought-provoking talks during the fair serve as platforms to address industry challenges and explore new opportunities. The team’s year-round engagement with participants further solidifies the event’s reputation as a nurturing space for creativity. “We take the time to understand our exhibitors,” Liv says. “It’s about building lasting relationships and supporting their growth.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding Horizons
As Collectible looks to the future, its ambitions remain as bold as its founding vision. Expansion into new markets and audiences is on the horizon, but the focus on nurturing emerging talent and fostering international collaborations remains central. “We’re exploring ways to engage the next generation of designers and collectors,” Clélie reveals. This includes educational initiatives and a stronger digital presence to ensure the fair continues to lead conversations around contemporary design.
In a world awash with design fairs, Collectible stands apart as a testament to what’s possible when passion meets precision. “Collectible is about more than objects,” Liv aptly puts it. “It’s about shaping the future of design.”
From its European roots to its American expansion, Collectible has redefined what it means to curate, create, and connect. And in doing so, it has not only elevated contemporary collectible design but also inspired a global community to dream a little bolder.
