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Comparing Conditions Explores the Traditional Form of a Chair

06.09.21 | By
Comparing Conditions Explores the Traditional Form of a Chair

Maria Bruun and Anne Dorthe Vester, also known as the duo behind Copenhagen-based studio MBADV, are taking part in newly opened exhibition Autonomous Design at the Schindler House in Los Angeles. Comparing Conditions is a group of four sculptural works that mimic the traditional form of a chair. Their starting point was the question of When is it a chair, a form, a material?

With Comparing Conditions, the two continue their exploration of material-generated fabrication and form, moving between marble, rattan, ceramic and oak. MBADV played with the possible outcomes of shape, function and materiality, with each decision revolving around three curves, four different ways of connecting them and four materials. The resulting four sculptural artworks are presented together, ready to be compared, in fact asking for it. You’re likely to notice the variety of seats first, from solid wood to a heavy marble plate. The qualities of each material were their own idea generator, guiding MBADV through their potential.

chair on backdrop

Wicker

chair

Wicker

chair on backdrop

Stoneware

chair

Stoneware

chair detail

Stoneware

chair on backdrop

Oak

chair

Oak

chair

Oak

chair on backdrop

Marble

chair detail

Marble

MBADV headshot

MBADV

Autonomous Design is on exhibit through September 12th at Schindler House. For information on how to visit, go to makcenter.org.

Kelly Beall is Director of Branded Content at Design Milk. The Pittsburgh-based writer and designer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, from Fashion Plates to MoMA and far beyond. When not searching out the visual arts, she's likely sharing her favorite finds with others. Kelly can also be found tracking down new music, teaching herself to play the ukulele, or on the couch with her three pets – Bebe, Rainey, and Remy. Find her @designcrush on social.