Artists Alex Chitty and Norman Teague have come together to create a thought-provoking and innovative exhibition titled “Chair-ish” at the Cleve Carney Museum of Art in Glen Ellyn. The show features a unique blend of sculpture and furniture design that challenges traditional notions of high design and functionality.
Chitty, known for her sculptural work using high-design objects as raw material, and Teague, a talented furniture designer, have joined forces to push the boundaries of creativity. While not a traditional collaboration, the artists work in parallel, inspiring each other to explore new possibilities. One of the most striking aspects of the exhibition is the daring act of sawing an iconic Eames chair into pieces, a move that challenges the reverence often associated with historical design.
The pieces on display in “Chair-ish” are a mix of original furniture and replicas by renowned designers and manufacturers. Chitty and Teague play with the idea of irreverence, using materials from iconic designs to create something entirely new and unexpected. The exhibition video sheds light on the artists’ personal experiences as a White woman and a Black man feeling marginalized in the historical design conversation, adding a layer of depth to the playful and innovative work on display.
Chitty’s work focuses on highlighting the abstract artistry of design components, with pieces like her “Brace” paintings and “Configuration” series showcasing her wit and creativity. Teague’s contributions lean towards the anthropomorphic, with pieces like “Eames Face” offering a whimsical take on traditional furniture design.
One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is the collaborative “Eames/Judd/Shapiro/Teague/Chitty Bench,” a multifaceted creation that brings together elements from multiple designers and artists. This bench serves as a functional and symbolic centerpiece in the exhibition, inviting viewers to take a moment to rest and reflect on the innovative work surrounding them.
“Chair-ish” is a testament to the power of collaboration and experimentation in the world of art and design. By breaking free from traditional constraints and embracing a spirit of irreverence, Chitty and Teague have created a truly unique and captivating exhibition that challenges viewers to see high design in a new light.
The exhibition will be on display at the Cleve Carney Museum of Art until April 11th, offering visitors a chance to experience the creative vision of two talented artists pushing the boundaries of art and design.
