In the heart of San Francisco, the Works in Progress III design exhibition has brought together a group of talented Bay Area designers to showcase their innovative interpretations of public benches. Curated by designer Kate Greenberg and Kelley Perumbet, co-founder of studio Office of Tangible Space, this exhibition is a highlight of San Francisco’s Art Week, drawing attention to the intersection of art, design, and functionality.
The exhibition features work by eight local designers, including Nick Polansky and Alex Schofield, who have pushed the boundaries of traditional bench design by using materials such as salvaged local wood and 3D-printed ceramics. The concept behind Works in Progress III is to reimagine benches as unique, crafted pieces that offer a new perspective on public seating.
Architect Nick Polansky’s creation, Split No.9, is a striking example of this approach. Using a single salvaged cedar beam, Polansky has meticulously spliced and bent the wood to create a lattice-like volume. By incorporating salvaged copper pipes and granite stones into the structure, Polansky has not only showcased his craftsmanship but also highlighted his commitment to sustainable design practices.
Another standout piece in the exhibition is the bench created by Oakland-based designer Alex Schofield. Made from reclaimed Douglas fir and interlocking 3D-printed ceramic bricks, Schofield’s bench features a unique design that includes a “seat for humans” and a “seat for non-humans.” The intention behind this piece is to encourage the growth of moss and lichen, transforming the bench into a living, breathing ecosystem.
Schofield’s thoughtful approach to design is evident in his statement: “My material is not much of a ‘material,’ but a cohabitant.” By creating a bench that serves as a scaffold for plant life, Schofield has reimagined the relationship between humans and nature, showcasing the potential for design to foster ecological growth.
The Works in Progress III exhibition also includes works by designers like Hanneke Lourens, whose Leftover Bench explores the contrast between public spaces in South Africa and the US. Lourens’ piece, made from salvaged old-growth redwood, is a reflection of her upbringing in South Africa, where public space deficits are a pressing issue.
Overall, Works in Progress III is a testament to the creative talent and innovative spirit of Bay Area designers. By reimagining public benches as unique, functional works of art, these designers have challenged conventional notions of design and pushed the boundaries of creativity. The exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in the intersection of art, design, and sustainability.
