Shape of Things to Come

“There are three strategies of approach —a different design,which could be an unusual construction or configuration or material; another interpretation,another handling of a piece of furniture; and the design of a new type of furniture or appliance,” says Albus. He has spent the last few months shortlisting objects that fulfil the criteria. At first glance,German designer Jakob Gebert’s chair in maple veneer and aluminum might seem commonplace but Albus points out to the manner in which the wooden seat has been connected to the frame. The metal legs have been inserted in between layers of laminated wood on the seat. Also in the gallery will be Miguel Vieira Baptista’s patchwork rug. In no particular geometrical shape,this brings together over 60 hexagons dyed in different shades. “He breaks the traditional function of a carpet as a high-quality,prestigious or decorative display which emphasises a particular section of interior space,” notes Albus.

There are other objects that are unique because of the material used. For instance,for his couch,Werner Aisslinger uses techno gel in the upholstery. A centimetre of the gel provides the softness that comes with five-centimetre-thick cushion material. Silvia Knuppel,meanwhile,transforms a regular shirt into a partnership prop that allows privacy in crowded places. Titled Dialoghemd (dialogue shirt),this requires one partner to wear the shirt that has a 1.2-m-long tube that can be put like a helmet on the head of the companion for an intimate conversation. Time to look at things differently? The exhibition could be an appropriate start.

The exhibition at Lalit Kala Akademi is on from May 11 to 30