Dwell partnered with Seattle design studio Fruitsuper to create a theater space showcasing work by talent from all over the region.
At the latest iteration of the Seattle Art Fair, the weekend-long contemporary art bonanza at the Lumen Field Event Center, design took center stage. Alongside artworks from nearly 100 local, national, and international galleries, the fair featured a theater space presented by Dwell and showcasing work by a lively, up-and-coming lineup of Pacific Northwest designers.
Curated by Sallyann Corn and Joe Kent of Seattle studio Fruitsuper, the stage featured furniture, lighting, and other design objects from a diverse group of some of the most exciting design studios in the region. Together, the collection reflected the playful, collaborative spirit of Pacific Northwest design, where today’s creators are embracing warmth, wit, and everyday delight.
The theater contained work by 13 design studios in the Pacific Northwest.
“We have an endless curiosity that has taken us down many different paths,” explained Corn during Friday’s panel discussion at the fair, where Dwell welcomed Fruitsuper to discuss their curation of the Seattle Art Fair stage and the state of Pacific Northwest design. “As a studio, we do product design, exhibition design, and curation, but we also love creating experiences that bring our community together.”
Geometric pillows by Portland, Oregon, studio Thatcher, perch on a bench by Seattle’s Fin, while vases by Hop & Jans Studio and Tori Shao x Leo Shallat sit on a side table by Fruitsuper.
According to Corn and Kent, this sense of collaboration and mutual support is one of the key factors that sets the local design community apart. “There’s a genuine belief here that there is room for all of us, and we all have room to grow and succeed,” said Corn. “There isn’t a competitive spirit here,” added Kent. “It’s because we believe a rising tide will raise all ships.”
The stage at the Seattle Art Fair.
See the full story on Dwell.com: The Best of Pacific Northwest Design Took Center Stage at the Seattle Art Fair
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