Without a shadow of a doubt, the exhibition 100 chairs in 100 days is designer Martino Gamper’s best known work to date. Overseen by the Nilufar Gallery, 100 chairs in 100 days has now landed in Melbourne, Australia and will be part of the Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival from the 26th February until the 9th April 2016.
100 chairs in 100 days was shown for the first time in London in 2007 and since then, it has touched Dusseldorf, Milan and San Francisco just to name a few. The display includes 100 disused chairs, which Gamper has salvaged, upcycled and redesigned in 100 days. What’s more, each chair represents a sort of collage of both iconic designs and unknown pieces, telling us a new story each time.
The main intent is clear: to mix together different components and styles, even if they are in sharp contrast with one another. Gamper bridges the gap between research and craftsmanship and by pushing each design to its limits, he tears apart pre-conceived notions, which could hold back the creative process.
Each chair is re-assembled neither casually nor creatively. In fact, Gamper sees each exhibit as a careful analysis on sociological contexts, as well as the personal and geographical issues, which have influenced the history of modern design. And these are all factors, which have contributed to shape his character, influence his views and even change his perspective on the world.
One last thing is clear: you won’t be just revisiting the history of modern design. In fact, by looking at these chairs, which crowd rooms or are neatly stacked along corridors, you’ll be taken over by a desire to experiment at home.
Dove: Building 100, Corner Victoria and Swanston Streets, Carlton, 3053, Melbourne, Australia
When: 26 February – 9 April 2016
BROWSE THE GALLERY
