EXHIBITION OBJECTS OF DESIRE: SURREALISM AND DESIGN 1924 – TODAY
the Surrealist designs as signs
The Surrealists were known for harnessing their dreams and took a lively interest in astrology, channelling cosmic aesthetics and symbols into their work. Inspired by our exhibition #ObjectsOfDesire, astrologer Lisa Stardust gives us a rundown of the new year and looks at the surrealist designs as zodiac signs.
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Your 2023 is a time of radical change and growth. Love conquers all, art will fulfil our souls with nourishment, judgements are pushed to the sidelines, and hope for a better tomorrow inspires us to be the best we can in the new year.
Artworks by Anna Bu Kliewer and horoscopes by Lisa Stardust.
You’ve always marched to the beat of your own drum. Now, you aren’t afraid to hide the uniqueness that makes you an individual who shines brighter than others. Be proud to be your own person.
Cartoon Chair, 2007, Fernando & Humberto Campana
Your fantasies can become realities. The moment you let go and dive into your subconscious, you’ll find a plush imaginative world that you must bring to life through your art in the new year. The sky’s the limit for creativity.
Untitled (Brooch with Eye and Tear), 1952, Jean Cocteau for Elsa Schiaparelli
The Exhibition
Discover Surrealism
Aries: Cadeau (Gift), 1963 replica of lost 1921 original Man Ray. Iron, nails. Vitra Design Museum. © Man Ray 2015 Trust/DACS, London 2022
Taurus: Bracelet en fourrure (Fur Bracelet), 2014 edition of 1935 original, Meret Oppenheim. Burnished brass, fur. Courtesy GEMS AND LADDERS. © Meret Oppenheim/DACS 2022
Gemini: MAgriTTA chair, 1970, Roberto Sebastian Matta for Simon International. Manufactured by Gavina S.p.A, 1971-80. Methacrylate, polyurethane foam, acrylic fabric, rubber. Vitra Design Museum. © ADAGP, Paris and DACS, London 2022 .
Cancer: Pink minidress, Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2021 Schiaparelli by Daniel Roseberry. Satin silk, sequins (dress), gilded brass (jewellery), natural calfskin, brass (boots). Paris, Maison Schiaparelli.
Leo: Oshun Omi ring and pendant, 2022, Vince Fraser & EROTIKK. Sterling silver, 18 carat vermeil gold plating, black rhodium, precious stones Courtesy of VINCE FRASER and EROTIKK.
Virgo: Mae West’s Lips sofa, 1938, Salvador Dali and Edward James. Manufactured by Green & Abbott. Felt, wood. Brighton & Hove Museums. © Salvador Dali, Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí, DACS 2022 .
Libra: Champagne lamp, 1938, Salvador Dalí and Edward James. Lacquered metal, plastic, textile. West Dean College of Arts and Conservation. © ARS, NY and DACS, London 2022.
Scorpio: ‘Miss Blanche’ chair, 1988, Shiro Kuramata. Manufactured by Ishimaru Co., Ltd. Acrylic resin, plastic roses, anodized tubular aluminium. Vitra Design Museum.
Sagittarius: Horse Lamp, 2006, Front Design. Manufactured by Moooi BV, Breda/Niederlande, Plastic, metal. Vitra Design Museum.
Capricorn: Hand Chair, 1965 edition of 1962 design, Pedro Friedeberg. Carved mahogany. Vitra Design Museum .
Aquarius: Cartoon Chair, about 2007, Fernando & Humberto Campana. Stuffed Disney toys, aluminium. Design Museum Collection. © Estudio Campana.
Pisces: Untitled (Brooch with Eye and Tear), 1952 edition of 1937 design Jean Cocteau for Elsa Schiaparelli Glass, metal, faux pearl Loan of Design Museum Den Bosch, The Netherlands.
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