The Design Center at Philadelphia University opens Lace in Translation, a new exhibition of contemporary work inspired by historic lace. The Center is located at 4200 Henry Avenue in Philadelphia.
Lace in Translation, which runs through April 3, 2010, explores the intersection of luxurious hand-craftsmanship with modern, mass production. The Design Center’s historic Quaker Lace Company collection is the inspiration for three internationally-renowned artists and designers reconsidering conventional notions of lace. European designers Tord Boontje and Demakersvan, and Canadian artist Cal Lane have created installations specifically for TDC’s unique and intimate space — a 1950s era, Hollywood-style ranch house, one of the first in Philadelphia, and situated on the edge of Fairmount Park.
From the intricacy of a handwoven raffia curtain, to the industrial art forms of laser-cut fabrics, a welded filigree oil tank, and a lace chain-link fence, Lace in Translation plays with the concept of lace, utilizing unexpected materials and new technologies to transform the Center’s grounds and galleries. A special exhibition website is available at www.laceinstranslation.com which invites visitors to preview the exhibition and to submit their own designs and handwork.
Lace in Translation has been funded by The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage, through the Philadelphia Exhibitions Initiative with additional support from the Marketing Innovation Program. Additional support has also come from The Coby Foundation, LTD and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts.
