Brooklyn-based artist Thomas Barger crafted a collection of 'Growing Up' furniture pieces inspired by his childhood memories back in Illinois. The collection is comprised of a series of paper pulp chairs that are being showcased at the Salon 94 Design gallery in New York. Barger's furniture pieces are also sculptures of expression, as he is reflecting upon his childhood more then ever since his recent coming out experience.
Every piece from the Growing Up collection is the artist's way of embodying a transition from the past to adulthood. The chairs each correlate to a place or memory from his time in the Midwest. For example, the curved chairs with thick leg foundations and perforated details resemble sand formations from a creek in Illinois.
Nostalgic Paper Pulp Chairs
Thomas Barger's 'Growing Up' Exhibition Recreates Childhood Memories
Trend Themes
1. Nostalgic Furniture Design - Creating furniture pieces that evoke childhood memories and nostalgia, providing consumers with sentimental and comforting experiences.
2. Paper Pulp Artisanal Crafts - Utilizing paper pulp as a sustainable and versatile material for artistic expression, offering unique and eco-friendly design options for various industries.
3. Personal Expression in Design - Infusing personal stories and experiences into art and design, allowing artists to connect with audiences on a deeper emotional level.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture - Exploring innovative designs and materials in the furniture industry to create nostalgic and sentimental pieces that resonate with consumers.
2. Art and Sculpture - Incorporating paper pulp as an artistic medium, enabling artists to create sculptural pieces that convey personal narratives and evoke nostalgic emotions.
3. Sustainable Design - Embracing paper pulp as a sustainable material option in various industries, promoting eco-friendly practices and reducing reliance on traditional materials.