Serbian artist Marina Abramović partnered with Mexican design studio La Metropolitana to create Elephant in the Room, a limited-edition chair collection. Presented during Mexico City Art Week, the exhibition combined design, performance, and a deeper exploration of ethical craftsmanship.
Displayed in a cavernous space at the Laguna art center—a former factory designed by Productora—the collection marked Abramović’s first venture into design. The collaboration sought to challenge conventional furniture aesthetics while addressing pressing environmental and cultural concerns.
A Blend of Tradition and Conceptual Art
The Elephant in the Room collection consists of handcrafted wooden chairs, each featuring small copper plates underneath, resembling horseshoes. The designs include:
- A high-backed chair without arms, crafted from Rosa Morada wood.
- A second version made from darker Cocobolo wood, featuring a single curved arm that wraps around the back.
- A conceptual piece, Elephant, which stands apart with its exaggerated, tower-like backrest wrapped in a thick copper spiral.
Each chair was meticulously crafted using traditional joinery techniques. Artisans spent days assembling the pieces, ensuring a balance between function and artistry.
Addressing the ‘Elephants in the Room’
Abramović and La Metropolitana used the collection to highlight ethical concerns within the design industry. Many materials were sourced from government-seized illegal wood, while the copper came from recycled coins and industrial waste. These choices emphasized the overexploitation of rare materials and the diminishing presence of traditional craftsmanship.
“Objects can transcend utility to become conveyors of energy and creators of emotional links,” Abramović stated, reinforcing the collection’s conceptual depth.
The exhibition layout featured chairs arranged on small pedestals, some standing upright while others lay overturned. The Elephant piece stood at the center, dominating the space. During Mexico City Art Week, Abramović performed within the exhibition, engaging with the chairs in an immersive display of movement and interaction.
Expanding Art’s Role in Design
This year’s Mexico City Art Week placed greater emphasis on design, with events such as the Unique Design X fair showcasing collectible pieces. Abramović also participated in other performances, including one celebrating the transformation of a house designed by Mexican mid-century architect Luis Barragán into an arts center.
Founded in 2008 by Rodrigo Escobedo, Mauricio Guerrero, and Alex Gutiérrez, La Metropolitana continues to prioritize sustainability and local craftsmanship. The studio integrates Shaker-inspired design principles while providing fair employment opportunities for artisans.
Elephant in the Room was on display from February 4 to 28. For more exhibitions, events, and talks in architecture and design, visit Dezeen Events Guide.