Rick Owens' Glade installation-furniture, first unveiled at the Carpenters Workshop Gallery in London in 2019, encapsulates his minimalist, brutalist design ethos, merging functionality, aesthetic, and art.
The exhibition showcases Owens' and his partner Michele Lamy’s collaborative exploration of art, design, and craftsmanship, featuring pieces that are both sculptural and practical.
The centerpiece of Glade is a series of modular sofas, covered in surplus French military wool blankets, echoing their use in the couple’s earlier designs. These sofas are not only visually striking but designed for social interaction, integrating features like internet connections and chargers to blend seamlessly into contemporary life. The pieces evoke a sense of gathering and comfort, reminiscent of a communal space—"a glade, a clearing in the forest," as described by Lamy. They aim to create an inviting atmosphere, encouraging interaction, relaxation, and engagement, rather than serving as static objects of beauty.
The installation-furniture blends primitive and futuristic elements, evoking ancient, organic forms while incorporating modern materials and techniques. The collection reflects Owens’ interest in history and architecture, while Lamy’s artisanal touch adds a layer of rare materials and intricate craftsmanship, creating a unique balance between minimalism and opulence.
The Glade pieces, along with Rick Owens' other furniture collections, are represented by Carpenters Workshop Gallery, with locations in London, Paris, and New York. The gallery is renowned as the leading destination for art-design, specializing in bridging the gap between art and design. It showcases unique, limited-edition works by renowned contemporary designers, cementing its status as the best gallery in the world in this contemporary field.
