Spanish artist Nacho Carbonell regards objects as living organisms capable of emotion and surprise. Inspired by a desert landscape, Dune Cabinet conjures a topographic depiction of land formations, while its exterior resembles the bark of a tree. The viewer interacts with the work by opening its doors to see the subtle yet functional interior, which features different surfaces on which objects can be placed.
A pioneer of the American Art Furniture movement, Wendell Castle was known for his organic approach to sculpture. His seating sculpture Suspended Disbelief is crafted in stained ash wood and features tapering spires that counterbalance a long tabletop. Spanning over four meters, the work illustrates Castle’s mastery of weight, balance and structural integrity, with fluid, nature-inspired forms maximising volume and scale.
As a master of material, Vincenzo De Cotiis seeks new manifestations of creativity through his assembly of contrasting elements. Sculpted from onyx and recycled fibreglass, DC2349 Desk features a long tabletop supported by two V-shaped blocks. The weathered, antique appearance evokes a dialogue between past and present, reflecting De Cotiis’ fusion of historic and contemporary expressions.
Paris-based designer Pieter Maes’ practice is distinguished by sculptural and tactile depth. The elongated, protective form of Sofa PM101 features upholstery in shearling by Yves Salomon, hand-stitched and fitted by the Phelippeau Workshop in France. The exhibition also features work by Maarten Baas, Ingrid Donat, Martin Laforêt, Wonmin Park, Robert Stadler and Charles Trevelyan. These artists and designers enliven and energise the new underground exhibition space, adding a fresh perspective to Carpenters engagement with art, design, craft and architecture.