Friedman Benda will present Wendell Castle, America’s most influential and iconic living designer, in his 5th solo exhibition at the gallery, opening June 22nd, 2017.
Embracing Upheaval is a fearless exploration, encompassing two groups: Block and Freeform. Each can be seen alone or as elements of a larger story, both familiar and a departure. Lyrical and unexpected, the new series continue Castle’s life-long interest in pushing the boundaries of furniture making, and represent Castle’s latest formal exploration into the convergence of sculpture and design Freeform series, inspired and informed by the music that has accompanied Wendell throughout his career, recall an abstract line drawn in space. The connection is evident in titles referencing cities known for music, including, The Big Easy, Motown and Second City.
With the Block series, chairs and tables emanate from solid slab-like constructions, forms born of wood, Castle’s predominant material throughout his career. With these, Castle suggests metamorphosis with an allusion to classical literature and sculpture.
