SALON: Gossip Chair by Lena Marie Emrich

"Intimate communication takes place on different levels, and whether it is physical or linguistic, it is about a certain, yes, special exchange (bodily fluids, secrets, information) that stands out from the permanent, everyday understanding and interaction, making it something extraordinary. Now there are places that are less suitable for such encounters and others that virtually challenge such a private confrontation. In addition to physical affection, gossip can also be communicated and passed on particularly well in a setting that creates familiarity and suggests connection - as is the case, for example, with a love bench.

 

It is interesting to note that divulging secrets, speaking specifically about people who are (not) present, spreading rumors or deliberately false circumstances are diametrically opposed to love-filled, tender devotion - and yet can be carried out wonderfully in the same place. The love or accordingly gossip chair, needs intimacy - it can only fulfill its purpose when two people take a seat on it, engage in the closeness enforced by its construction and accordingly enter into dialogue (in whatever form). Which direction the discourse takes and which tone the protagonists adopt is left up to them. The love bench merely provides incentives or makes an (immoral) offer."

 

 

In her practice, Emrich focuses on theory-based material development while exploring the dichotomy between industrial and artisanal craftsmanship. She examines everyday objects for their aesthetic, linguistic and social relevance. Working in series, she creates visually enthralling, sensuous objects that speak of temporal and spatial human exchange. Emrich also frequently works in stage design – collaborating with playwright Sarah Kohm.

 

Earlier this year, IMPORT EXPORT (Warsaw) hosted a collaborative exhibition with  Galerie Mehdi Chouakri (Berlin) presenting ‘Holding Tight’ by Lena Marie Emrich and Estate of Charlotte Posenenske. Find more about the exhibition here.