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The Arts Intel Report

A Cultural Compass
For the World Traveler
A Cultural Compass
For the World Traveler

The Modern Chair

Sept 9, 2021 – Apr 3, 2022
101 N Museum Dr, Palm Springs, 92262, United States

Back in 1905, the release of the Thonet “B-9” bentwood armchair revolutionized interiors and became a favorite among Modernist architects and designers. In Paris, 1925, Le Corbusier used the B-9 in his L’Esprit Nouveau Pavilion, and before long its versatility and simplicity made it a staple in homes, offices, and restaurants around the world. Through the century, further technological and stylistic advances saw countless other new chair designs, indicative of a changing world. With works by 50 designers—including Mart Stam, Frank Gehry, Eileen Gray, and Charlotte Perriand—this exhibition presents a timeline of chairs from 1905 to the 21st century. —E.C.

Verner Panton, “Heart Cone Chair,” 1958. Photo: Yoshihiro Makin.