Hopping Fences is a multi-layered exhibition, conceived as an alternative to traditional furniture or design shows. Its site-specific nature presses the boundaries between art and design, personal expression and public statement. These installations will act as conceptual reflections on how design impacts, and is impacted by, modern urban living: the pace and demands, allowances and challenges. In addition, each installation will also connect to other expressive forms–those more intimate influences on these designers’ work including sculpture, glass blowing, collage, painting, and video art.
Unlike so many gallery exhibitions, Hopping Fences invites the viewer to interact with the work. “Among other things, design touches the senses, and help us live our lives more comfortably, more safely and more enjoyably,” says Hilary Jay, co-curator and director of The Design Center. “It’s crucial that this exhibition allow visitors to experience, and not just see, what the designers are commenting on.”
In Qb3’s installation, for instance, a sense of play and childhood wonder is evoked through an environment designed to examine the collective meaning of “home.” Archetypal furniture and objects are distended and exaggerated to question the fundamental associations between place and memory.
Target Stores is the Presenting Sponsor of Hopping Fences. The Philadelphia Citypaper is the Media Sponsor. Additional support comes from Minima and Commerce Bank.
Hopping Fences opens
January 16 and runs through May 2, 2004
The public opening for Hopping Fences: Influences in modern living is Friday, February 13, 2004, 7 to 9 p.m. and features the music of pianist and composer Heath Allen. The address is The Philadelphia Art Alliance, 251 S. 18th Street (between Locust and Spruce Streets), Philadelphia, PA 19103.
The Philadelphia Art Alliance is the only multidisciplinary arts organization in the heart of Center City Philadelphia on Rittenhouse Square.
The Design Center at Philadelphia University promotes the appreciation of design in everyday life, and investigates its meaning for a broad general audience. For more information about TDC programs and exhibitions, call (215) 951-2860 or contact Hilary Jay at JayH@PhilaU.edu.