In the sleepy that never sleeps lays also some of the best art galleries in the world, and with this incredible aspect comes the most exciting design events. Whether it is in the heart of Manhattan’s design district or in some hidden street in the imposing New York City, these art exhibitions promise to add an artsy touch to the ending of 2020 and the beginning of 2021. Let’s step inside a few art installations and design events that feature everything from Franck Evennou’s bronze art furniture to the Haas Brothers’ furry modern design creatures.
Friedman Benda
“What Would Have Been”
Determined to make up for its myriad talents whose works lost their intended platform due to pandemic-related closures across five continents, Friedman Benda is presenting a vivacious design extravaganza. Wide-ranging works from over 30 studios are featured, including those by late greats like Wendell Castle and Ettore Sottsass, plus well-established names in one of the best design events, such as Gaetano Pesce, Daniel Arsham, the Campana Brothers, Marcel Wanders, Faye Toogood, and OrtaMiklos. Also featured are new design pieces commissioned for festivals and art fairs, which like all items in the show, can be viewed online or in person.
When: November 5–December 12
Where: 515 West 26th Street
Bernd Goeckler and Maison Gerard
“Avenue Evennou”
Not only does this represent French artisan Franck Evennou’s first solo show in New York, but it is also the first joint exhibition between 10th Street neighbors Maison Gerard and Bernd Goeckler. Both galleries will present Evennou’s contemporary, nature-inspired bronze furniture, including new works, in-person and online.
When: December 1–23
Where: 30, 43, & 53 East 10th Street
Room57
“Chapter One”
Brecht Wright Gander has debuted three new pieces of furniture and lighting as part of Room57 Gallery’s inaugural art exhibition.
The brand-new Room57 Gallery has opened with a captivating modern art show combining blue-chip artists, such as Helen Frankenthaler and Robert Motherwell, with emerging talents in both fine and decorative arts. Rather than the traditional white-box gallery, Room57 is designed to resemble a home where visitors can properly envision how they’d live with such items on display. In addition to pieces by KAWSxCampana, ATRA Form, and Brecht Wright Gander, Room57 has partnered with Free Arts NYC to highlight and support up-and-coming talents with their Youth Arts Collection—all of the proceeds from these works will go to the modern artists.
When: November 19–February 14, 2021
Where: 235 East 57th Street
See Also: ‘What Would Have Been’ Art Exhibition Curated By Friedman Benda
Demisch Danant
“Verre Lumiere: 20 Years of French Lighting 1968–88”
Demisch Danant’s first exhibition in New York dedicated to Verre Lumiere continues the art gallery’s exploration of midcentury French design that connects postwar and contemporary advances in form and technology. More than 50 rare lamps on view tell the story of the prestigious French lighting firm, which was created in 1968 by Max Ingrand, the famous French master glass worker and decorator. In the years since, the company distinguished itself through exceptional craftsmanship and highly efficient prototyping, which translated into some of the period’s most modern designs.
When: November 16–January 8, 2021
Where: 30 West 12th Street
R & Company
“An Affair to Remember”
In its singular New York location, R & Company presents three spaces each reflecting three major fairs’ distinct identities. “Booths” representing TEFAF, Salon | Art + Design, and Design Miami/ are comprised of pieces by an all-star lineup, including the Haas Brothers, Wendell Castle, Rogan Gregory, Hun-Chung Lee, Katie Stout, Johnny Swing, Joaquim Tenreiro, and Pierre Yovanovitch. This is truly one of the most exciting design events!
When: November 17–January 14, 2021
Where: 64 White Street
See Also: Salon Art and Design Introduces A Digital Magazine Filled With Collectible Design
