Rediscovering Furniture Design Through Artistic Lenses
Joey Postiglione's Pop-Up at Martha’s Contemporary: A Fresh Perspective on Furniture Design
Joey Postiglione's Pop-Up at Martha’s Contemporary: A Fresh Perspective on Furniture Design
In the eclectic and vibrant setting of SXSW, amidst the pulsing energy of Austin, one of our favorite pop-up gallery shows emerged. Joey Postiglione, an Austin native and designer, introduced his inaugural exhibition "Pasta Objects" at Martha's Contemporary, one of our favorite Austin galleries. The show was as delightfully playful and Italian as its’ name might suggest. For three short days, this pop-up served not just as an exhibition space but as a storytelling arena, where each furniture piece narrated a tale of emotion and memory.
Joey Postiglione's work is a testament to the power of personal stories in design. His creations, inspired by figures like Ettore Sottsass and Gerrit Rietveld, are a bold mix of color, form, and function, each with its own backstory. The grandfather clock, 'Pasquale,' for instance, isn't just a timekeeping device; it's a homage to Postiglione's own Italian grandfather, a central figure in his life story. Similarly, the 'Josephine' lamp, named and modeled after Postiglione's grandmother, encapsulates her vibrant spirit and style, symbolized through its martini and cigarette elements. A favorite detail of ours was the lamp's hanging cords, representative of his grandmother's earrings – a detail beautifully pointed out by Ricky and Meredith, the dynamic color-loving duo who have owned and operated the gallery since 2018.
A particularly refreshing aspect of Postiglione's exhibition was his commitment to Memphis ideals in anchoring his collection with a story and emotion-first approach . This is evident in pieces like the chair, "I Couldn't Say It To Your Face," which ingeniously forces users to confront the challenges of communication by turning their backs on each other. Its counterpart, "Love Comes Back," compels a face-to-face interaction, emphasizing the necessity of communication in relationships. These pieces don't just serve a function; they evoke an emotional response and stimulate conversation about the dynamics of human connections.
A Nod to Personal and Cultural Heritage
Catholicism's influence on Postiglione’s upbringing was also visible in pieces like "I've Been Smoking Again." This work, reminiscent of a Catholic pew but equipped with an ashtray, reflects a blend of reverence and rebellion. The stained glass and black velvet, sourced from a vintage gown, add layers of personal and cultural symbolism, demonstrating how furniture can transcend its utilitarian purpose to become a canvas for personal expression.
Joey Postiglione’s SXSW pop-up at Martha’s was more than an exhibition of furniture; it was a demonstration of how design can intertwine with personal stories and emotions to create pieces that are both functional and deeply meaningful. His work, like that of Memphis Milano, challenges us to see furniture not just as objects in our space but as extensions of our experiences and memories. As we navigate the changing landscape of art and design, it’s refreshing to encounter a designer who approaches furniture with a playful yet incredibly personal perspective.
While Postiglione’s pop-up at Martha’s has ended, those intrigued by his unique approach can still inquire about these works through the gallery’s website. Additionally, there’s an exciting opportunity to delve further into Martha’s programming with the upcoming group exhibition "I Want to Believe," hosted by the gallery in collaboration with 12.26. This exhibition, running from March 23 to April 20, 2024, promises to be another exciting showcase of creativity and innovation in design. The opening reception on March 23, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, is an event not to be missed for anyone in Austin that’s passionate about contemporary art and design.
