SOLIDNATURE AND SECRETS OF THE UNIVERSE PRESENT ‘SOUVENIRS OF A FORGOTTEN PAST’
A group exhibition exploring the cultural journeys of diasporas through the lens of design on show at Luminaire Chicago during NeoCon 2024 and beyond, 10 June to 10 August
June 10, 2024
Chicago, 11 June 2024 – Award-winning natural stone brand SolidNature and Secrets of the Universe, known for its experimental architecture, objects, and installations, are proud to present Souvenirs of a Forgotten Past, a tabletop installation and group exhibition on show now at Luminaire Chicago in occasion of NeoCon 2024, from 10 June to 10 August.
Inspired by the concept of souvenirs as artifacts that bridge memory and moment, Souvenirs of a Forgotten Past invites audiences to explore the cultural journeys of diasporas through the lens of design. Nine designers and artists from diverse backgrounds have been invited to participate in this groundbreaking exhibition, each tasked with creating a souvenir out of stone that articulates their personal journey between cultures.
The idea for Souvenirs of a Forgotten Past originated from an exploration of cultural identity and the use of natural stone in design. As the selected designers delved into their own heterogeneous cultural backgrounds, the project evolved into a reflection on diaspora and the migration of cultures into new worlds. At this crucial moment, the exhibition aims to bring attention to the narratives and encounters of migrants, initiating substantial discussions about identity, belonging, and the human connection to place.
"Our prompt was to reflect on the meaning of a souvenir, particularly in the context of relocation and cultural migration,” explain Secrets of the Universe. “We wanted to explore how these small objects can encapsulate the essence of two or more cultures coming together in a new environment.”
Participants in Souvenirs of a Forgotten Past include Bureau Spectacular (Jimenez Lai), who presents "A Guardian Monster." Inspired by Taiwanese ancestral worship practices, this piece embodies a gentle monster that guards souls for their return to the next life. Chris Adamick's "Lenticular Vessel" evokes early 20th-century American commercial advertising, reflecting his grandfather's immigrant journey from Poland to the United States.
Natou Fall’s ‘Souvenirs à Nous: Mother & Child’ is an abstraction of Senegalese mother and child totems, exploring the shifting relationship between a mother and her child across different cultural landscapes. Present Forms (Stephanie Lin) created "Cloud Vase," an abstracted landscape vessel for flowers, paying tribute to her Taiwanese grandmother and the cultural exchanges that shape identity.
Saba Salekfard's "Sofreh" reimagines the iconic Persian saffron mortar and pestle, transforming it into a cohesive stone piece that invites tactile engagement. Saba Yazdjerdi’s "The Qalamdan" reinterprets the traditional Persian pen case, symbolizing the tension between cultural preservation and the struggle for free expression.
Smith-Clementi (Frank Clementi and Julie Smith-Clementi) explore the composite nature of American identity through a reflective, dual-themed piece inspired by Venice, named "E la Nave Va". Studio Gorm (Wonhee Arndt and John Arndt) elevates the bathing ritual into a ceremonial act with "Bath Stool," a stone stool that combines traditional and modern elements.
Finally, Chris Cornelius of Studio Indigenous offers "Souvenir of Citizenship," a poignant piece reflecting the service of Indigenous Americans in the U.S. military and their struggle for recognition and identity.
"Souvenirs of a Forgotten Past initiates a profound cultural exploration through the lens of design," reflects SolidNature's CEO David Mahyari. "Each designer chosen to participate brings a unique background, resulting in a diverse array of creations" Mahyari observes, highlighting the project's rich tapestry of diversity. "As curators, we aim to highlight the beauty in both the stone pieces and cultural narratives," he adds. "Moreover, our sourcing of materials from around the world mirrors how each piece inherently carries the essence of diverse backgrounds," Mahyari concludes, encapsulating the global resonance of the installation.
This is the first time that SolidNature has embarked on a project focusing on producing art objects on a smaller scale. The brand consistently delivers stunning creations that elevate any environment. From elegant residential designs to inviting hospitality settings and captivating retail displays, SolidNature's portfolio showcases a diverse range of projects that highlight the versatility and sophistication of natural stone. Through their innovative approach and dedication to craftsmanship, SolidNature continues to set the standard for excellence in the industry, earning them a well-deserved reputation as the go-to choice for premium natural stone solutions. This project underlines the brand's interest in expanding its capabilities and engaging with creatives to share important messages whilst showcasing its wide range of manufacturing skills.
The exhibition, made possible through collaboration with SolidNature, provides access to extraordinary raw materials, state-of-the-art fabrication technology, and unparalleled expertise to realize each designer’s vision. Souvenirs of a Forgotten Past will be on display at Luminaire Chicago during NeoCon 2024, offering attendees a thought-provoking exploration of cultural heritage and the power of design. The installation will remain at Luminaire’s Chicago showroom until 10th August, after which it will embark on a journey across the United States, making stops at key Luminaire showrooms in San Francisco and Los Angeles.
NOTES TO EDITORS
Exhibition Details
10 June - 10 August
Luminaire Chicago
301 W Superior St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Preview Cocktail
Tuesday 11 June
7pm - 9pm
Luminaire Chicago
301 W Superior St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
About Secrets of the Universe
We are Secrets of the Universe, for experimental projects, objects, and installations. Our purpose is to explore emerging themes in culture through the lens of commerce by pairing a select group of artists, architects, and designers with specific businesses to probe a common idea. Through these intentional pairings, we can generate meaning in ways neither party would have cause to do on its own, thereby illuminating possible futures and expanding the potential and wonder of our world. As a byproduct, businesses whose markets do not allow for experimentation are given a platform to develop in a high-value, low-stakes environment and potentially expand their presence into new markets. Artists, architects and designers are given the opportunity to broaden the scope and subject matter of their work and an opportunity to directly engage with commerce in exciting and unfamiliar ways.
About Luminaire
A pioneering force in the design world, since 1974. Luminaire is more than a furniture showroom. It is an interactive design research center, a playground for the soul, and an esplanade for discovery. Simultaneously, a classroom, gallery, laboratory and playground – Luminaire is most importantly a place of discovery, not just for design but how we can use it to accentuate and improve our lives. Partnering with Interni to form a Global Design Network that highlights the excellence of Italian and international design, while guaranteeing the same extraordinary Design Experience from Milan to Dubai, Miami to London