Lace in Translation

Lace in Translation is a new exhibition of contemporary work inspired by historic lace. Lace in Translation explores the intersection of luxurious hand-craftsmanship with modern, mass production. The Design Center’s historic Quaker Lace Company collection is the inspiration for three artists and designers reconsidering conventional notions of lace. European designers Tord Boontje and Demakersvan, and Canadian artist Cal Lane have created installations specifically for TDC’s unique and intimate space — a 1950s era, Hollywood-style ranch house, one of the first in Philadelphia, and situated on the edge of Fairmount Park.

Cal Lane, partially cut oil tank

Oil tank drawing by Cal Lane	Cal Lane prepping oil tank

Cal Lane working on oil tank (Photo by Kerry Polite)	1000 gallon oil tank, Oxy-Acetylene cut and welded steel, paint, burnt lawn, Cal Lane, 2009

Quaker Lace inspiration for Cal Lane's work; from the collection of The Design Center at Philadelphia University

From the intricacy of a handwoven raffia curtain, to the industrial art forms of laser-cut fabrics, a welded filigree oil tank, and a lace chain-link fence, Lace in Translation plays with the concept of lace, utilizing unexpected materials and new technologies to transform the Center’s grounds and galleries.

Lace fence, Galvanized PVC-coated wire, Demakersvan, 2009 (Photos by Kerry Polite)

Lace border by Demakersvan	Lace fence Netherlands by Demakersvan

A special exhibition website is available at www.laceinstranslation.com which invites visitors to preview the exhibition and to submit their own designs and handwork.
 
A short film running at the exhibition explores the history of the Quaker Lace Company and its role in transforming lace from luxury product to mass market consumable, as well as the creative processes of Boontje, Demakersvan, and Lane. The film features historic footage of Quaker Lace being manufactured, the designers’ contemporary production techniques, and interviews with the designers and curators. Directed by Glenn Holsten, the film will also be available online.

Grass Hair Piece by Tord Boontje                           Rafia sample by Tord Boontje

Sofa, Aramide and Dynema fibers; powder-coated steel, Studio Tord Boontje, 2009 (Photo by Beth VanWhy)

Original lace inspiration for Tord Boontje's work, collection of The Design Center at Philadelphia University	Ten Lighting Fixtures,  Raffia, Studio Tord Boontje, 2009 (Photo by Kerry Polite)

Lace in Translation
Exhibition from September 24 2009 to April 3 2010
The Design Center at Philadelphia University
4200 Henry Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19144, USA