Cool Hunting
by Laurice Parkin
At last Summer's "Important 20th Century Design" auction at Sotheby's, Ron Arad's beautiful bronze and steel sculptural lounge entitled "After Spring" (produced in 1992) sold for a record-setting $168,000, forever attaching "Design Superstar" to his name.
Continuing to inspire, Arad's newest seating system, "Misfits" for Moroso, is promising to be one of the most highly anticipated Design Week debuts. The uneven modularity and flowing, organic shapes come together in a beautiful jigsaw puzzle. What is most striking besides the eye-catching shapes are the proportions — oversized to the eye, yet incredibly comfortable to sit. I found the curves to be enveloping and relaxing, with the give of the cushion to be perfect; creating truly functional art that is meant to be enjoyed.
The soft curvature of the collection brings to mind Olivier Mourgue's Djinn Lounge Chairs prominently showcased in Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey," but Arad is definitely working in a universe all his own.
With the varied array of pieces and shapes, the creations are endless — define your space as you like, whether it be a sinuous L-shaped sectional or a bold punch of color from the curvy topography of the ottoman.
Check out "Misfits" at the Moroso Showroom starting on Saturday, 17 May 2008, where the collection will be formally debuting with an opening reception by invitation only from 7-9pm.
Moroso
146 Greene Street
New York, NY 10012 map
tel. +1 212-334-7222
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