Founded by Steven Learner, and now in it’s 6th year iteration, the Collective Design Fair has moved up to March to coincide with the Armory Show. Both design shows are held on the west side of Manhattan. Collective is an absolute joy to attend. It’s not too big or too crowded, instead it is focused, creative and highly inspirational. What I enjoy most about this fair is it allows you to view the artists works and in many cases speak to the artists directly about their inspiration and process of their creations. For the 2018 fair, the theme was about the design process and study of objects. Another wonderful improvement was that the show was moved to a larger space on the top floor of Skylight Clarkson North which was brighter with large windows and natural light.
Collective is a high end contemporary design fair with global curated works from both emerging and established galleries. Some notable favorites included a large dynamic vibrant blue chair sculpture by Jamie Bush, circular sculptural lighting designed with crystals by Christopher Boots (he was wonderful to meet) and a fabulous Harry Bertoia bush sculpture presented by Lost City Arts. The outstanding textures and blends of colors of the ceramics at the Mindy Solomon Gallery were inspired. I kept returning to the Chahan Gallery exhibit as I enjoyed literally every piece of furniture and decorative work on their well curated display. I look forward to visiting the gallery in person the next time I am in Paris.
It was inspiring speaking with artist Peter Lane about his stunning ceramic wall panel installation. I look forward to collaborating with him some day soon for a custom client commission. Ceramic artist Ahryun Lee took the time to tell me about her inspiration of the tastes and flavors she enjoyed as a child that led to her colorful sculptures. This show is an annual must visit!
