Furniture as a medium

The first furniture collection by the internationally renowned performance artist is entitled "The Elephant in the room". With this title, Abramović refers to the metaphor that a generally known problem is not being addressed. The chairs, made using traditional carpentry techniques, are thus to be understood as a pointer to a dwindling connection to nature and an appreciation of craftsmanship. Right down to the details, the two straightforward yet expressive wooden chairs serve as a medium: made from Rosa Morada wood, the legs merge into hoof-shaped bases made from a range of materials – such as precious wood, coins and industrial waste. This addresses the overuse of rare woods and the dilution of cultural and material traditions. ‘Objects can transcend utility to become conveyors of energy and creators of emotional links, reflecting our ability to transform materials with purpose and sensitivity’, says Marina Abramović.

In addition, the design of the backrests in two sizes features an indentation in the shape of a half ellipse. In the smaller version, a single armrest extends partly over the back of the chair. A fine contrast in colour is provided by the different materials. The show also includes the ‘Elephant’ chair, whose backrest consists of a high beam that stretches upwards like a totem and is wrapped in a copper spiral. As a conceptual work, it challenges the conventional proportions of classic seating furniture.

The show can be seen until 28 February 2025 in the creative centre ‘Laguna’ in Mexico City, a former textile and yarn factory from the 1920s, which was carefully converted by the architecture studio Productora. The aim was to be able to convert the rooms as required at any time – the raw charm and spacious areas of the industrial halls were preserved. The work of Studio La Metropolitana is based on the endeavour to use the power of design to improve the sometimes precarious living conditions of craftspeople and producers and to promote the economic development of the regional communities. This includes the responsible use of wood as a natural material and production that is as waste-free as possible.

‘The elephant in the room’
Until 28 February 2025

Laguna
Dr Lucio 181
Doctores, CDMX