ORIGINALITY DECONSTRUCTED
NEW YORK CITY
The capsule exhibition celebrates creativity by pulling back the curtain on the “how” and “why” of iconic design products, demystifying what goes into their conception. By dissecting these items, the showcase offers an in-depth look into different aspects of production. Visitors are presented with issues surrounding sustainability and the challenges of copyrighting design. What goes into ensuring the authenticity of a carefully conceived and meticulously-crafted object, especially those with historical significance? Be Original Americas: Originality Deconstructed was curated by Adrian Madlener with the generous support of host sponsor Ace Hotel and imaginative sponsor Lumens. The exhibition will travel to Ace Hotel Palm Springs and Los Angeles in 2023.
1006 & 111 Navy Chairs
Emeco first developed the iconic 1006 Navy Chair in 1944 to outfit US Navy warships. Built to withstand the tough life at sea, this American classic became an interior design staple over time, recognized for its extraordinary durability. Produced in America out of recycled aluminum long before it was popular to do so, the design is still handcrafted in Hanover, P.A., following a unique 77-step process. Released in 2010, the 111 Navy Chair is the world’s first structural object made out of discarded PET bottles diverted from landfills and oceans.
Arco K
The limited edition Arco K floor lamp by Flos is a contemporary take on the highly-influential classic conceived by Italian duo Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni in 1962. This reimagined design is characterized by its recyclable, lead-free crystal base that comes complete with a spun aluminum reflector and curved stainless steel adjustable stem. This new, fully-translucent base channels light in surprising and unexpected ways. The exhibition incorporates additional elements that demonstrate what goes into its production, such as the glass powder that is melted and extruded to form the crystal base.
PH 5
Each conical component of Louis Poulsen’s PH 5 pendant lamp was meticulously formed by Poul Henningsen in 1958 to reflect ideal proportions. The Danish designer imagined a stacked composition that could refract light in multiple directions while remaining compact and aesthetically pleasing. Pulling the design apart reveals the attention to detail that was put into each essential element but also the quality of material and production that ensures its durability.
Refuse DC
Suzanne Tick developed the Refuse DC artwork after discovering what happens to the millions of dry cleaning hangers that are used every day and accumulate in people's closets. Releasing that they cannot be used more than once, she devised a way to dissemble their components and weave them back together in a tapestry. Tick began by separating paper, cardboard, metal wire, and plastic wrapping of the hangers to amass the raw material. While these elements serve as the weft, sheath-core yarn forms the warp.
