Art in Conversation: Sculptural furniture in HIMACS by Lena Marie Emrich

Lena Marie Emrich once again turns to HIMACS Solid Surface for her acclaimed sculpture, including the 'Gossip Chairs', which are complemented by a series of coffee tables showcased in the current 'Kunstverein Hannover Award' exhibition in Hannover, Germany.

Emrich has created 50 sculptural works, collectively known as "Gossip Chairs," as part of her installation “Talk of the Town”. These pieces are positioned both outside and inside the prestigious art association Kunstverein Hannover, inviting passersby and visitors to take a seat and engage in spontaneous conversations… or even share a secret or two.

The Kunstverein Hannover has supported emerging artists through its residency and scholarship programmes for 40 years. From August 24th until October 6th, the Kunstverein is presenting the works of its resident artists in the “Kunstverein Hannover Award” exhibit, which opens to the public in a joint première with the Kulturdreieck Festwochen, a two-week art festival in Hanover.

HIMACS: A Preferred Medium for Creative Innovation

HIMACS Solid Surface, a material traditionally used in architecture and interior design, has become a favoured medium for Emrich’s artistic explorations. Known for its versatility, HIMACS is composed of minerals, acrylic, and natural pigments, and can be thermoformed into seamless, three-dimensional shapes. This freedom of creativity has inspired its use in a variety of artistic projects. Visionaries such as Zaha Hadid, Jean Nouvel, Karim Rashid, and David Chipperfield have also made the most of HIMACS in their groundbreaking work.

In Emrich’s latest installation, “Talk of the Town”, the material plays a pivotal role. Through milling, sawing, engraving and polishing, the artist has transformed HIMACS — which is almost as durable as stone yet workable like wood — into a series of intricate, visually captivating sculptures. The result is a harmonious blend of technical craftsmanship and artistic expression.

Sculptures That Spark Conversation

Each of the "Gossip Chairs" forms an intimate conversational space, designed to stimulate interaction. Though the seats are oriented in different directions, those seated are encouraged to turn toward one another, fostering an atmosphere of companionship. Emrich’s intent is to instigate dialogue between strangers, provoking interaction and an exploration of the dynamic between observer and observed. Each variation of the chairs — from “Tête-à-tête” to “Ménage à Trois” and “Octagon” — offers a distinct storytelling element, inspiring conversation to flow in new and unexpected directions.

Aesthetic and Material Harmony

For the "Gossip Chairs," Emrich has selected subtle yet contrasting HIMACS tones, including the deep black Black Granite with white flecks, and the natural, calming tones of Sea Oat Quartz and Alpine White. These colour choices enhance the tactile and visual appeal of the sculptures, reinforcing the quiet, intimate nature of the installation.

“Talk of the Town” featuring the "Gossip Chairs" will remain on display at Kunstverein Hannover until October 6th. Following the exhibition, the "Gossip Chairs" and stool/tables will be available for purchase from the artist.