18 September 2010 – Autumn 2012
The commission forms a centre-piece for the front gardens of the Museum, which are being refurbished in 2010. Kei Ito is designing an installation of lighting on either side of the main path.
The Geffrye Museum, set in Grade I listed 18th century almshouses, explores the home of the English urban middle classes over the past 400 years and celebrates domesticity through its series of period rooms. It is well connected to the vibrant local design community and has a strong track record of working with contemporary designer-makers. The Geffrye is also a partner in the 2012 Cultural Olympiad.
The commission forms a centre-piece for the front gardens of the Museum, which are being refurbished in 2010. Kei Ito is designing an installation of lighting on either side of the main path. This will be extraordinary and beautiful: an ethereal parade of chairs, lamps and bird boxes, reflecting the Museum’s themes and inspired by the global cultural influences that have shaped English furniture, ornaments and textiles. Larger than life, they will be made from woven fibre optics and, from dusk, their glow will create a sense of ghostly magic on Autumn and Winter afternoons.
Designed to be visible from the busy road that runs in front of the museum and bring the textures of the collection outside, this commission is a key part of the museum’s involvement in the London Design Festival 2010.
A Parade of Chairs will make a regular appearance each Autumn over the coming three years.
Take part: Kei Ito will lead participatory projects with young people studying towards the new Creative and Media Diploma for 14-19 year olds. museumaker is also organising events for designers to take part in at the Geffrye, focusing on gardens and retail.
the museum for visitor information and opening times.
