TheByte

Centurion

In the latest issue of Elle decor there is a very interesting feature in which they criticize the new era of over-priced art. A prime example of what they were talking about is that sofa right there, it's a design piece which caries zero usability at all and is sold off at a staggering price to people who'll use it for only go knows what.

These days any top designer can make some very quick money creating a batch of 5 items and selling them off at an auction. Another point worth mentioning is art is always in the eyes of the beholder and lately many design pieces are deliberately created to look like art and attract people with deep pocket. Quite superfluous just like the Phantom DHC developed from the ground up to be as extravagant as a car be. You should buy the issue and read the feature, some very valid points are made.

There are stunning items for sale at phillips depury. But some of the stuff is laughable. I don't see what makes this bowl worth $6-8k. I can easily find a near identical one on an outdoor sunday market.

Rob

^ Thanks, I will buy that issue.

The line between art and design has become very blurred. I guess people like Alessandro Mendini have been instrumental in this ...his Proust chair from 1978 has become a kind of icon ....and a whole generation of younger designers have been influenced by these kinds of conceptual/intellectual objects.

I must admit though, I really like the 'Robber Baron' group of furniture/art objects from Studio Job.



More like Jeff Koons than design objects -- confusing times we are living in.

Rob

Here is another excellent auction house which specializes in important design objects.

Wright20

Centurion

Not feeling that lamp, looks too random for me to see any beauty in it.

You're not the only one who's got a thing for Robber Baron. I've seen they in quite a few places on the web and in magazine, for me it was love at first time. Black and gold is a sexy combination. The lucky owner made a superb purchase. BTW are they gold plated or is it just gold painted wood?

Rob

^ they are made from cast bronze ....so they'll be very heavy.

Va Va Voom

Pfft my finger painting is worth more

Rob

^