Philadelphia has always been a hotbed of creative talent. From its tradition of craft-driven furniture to its institutional legacy of art museums, the distinctions between art and design have always blurred organically.
American Street Showroom, an inspiring 11,000 sq ft space filled with objects, one-offs and artwork established by Adam Kamens, is helping to keep this spirit going by bringing a selection of lighting designers from around the USA to exhibit pieces in its evocative space. Featuring designs by Philly locals, such as Tyler Hays, Robert True Ogden and Kamens’ other enterprise, the fabrication studio Amuneal, alongside pieces from Bec Brittain (New York), Cedar & Moss/Esque Studio (Portland) and Will Dexter (Boyertown), artistic lighting designs are installed throughout the sprawling former electric company building. Many have been created specifically for the show – the showroom’s first.
‘We selected these designers and makers not only because they are renowned for their work,' says Showroom director Kim Kamens, 'but also because we knew that each one would have a unique perspective on lighting, which would make for a very interesting exhibition.’
From Hays’ delicate, craftsman-savvy approach and Brittain’s edgy geometric style to Dexter’s artistically manipulative technique, there is an impressive range of work on display. There’s plenty of time for out-of-towners to experience the exhibition too – the lighting display will stay up for the whole year, with more pieces to be added over the coming months.
Featuring designs by 12 individuals, the artistic offerings are installed throughout the sprawling former electric company building. Pictured: ’Drop Light’, by Amuneal
A close-up view of the ’Drop Light’
The exhibition is the first organised by the showroom. Pictured: a design by Tyler Hays
Many of the lighting pieces on display have been created especially for the occasion. Pictured: textured glass pendants, by Will Dexter
’Shy’ lamp, by Bec Brittain
The exhibition will continue throughout the year, with new designs and pieces added over the months to come. Pictured: funnel and bowl shaped ceramics, by Natalie Page
A selection of table lamps by the Portland-based studio, Cedar & Moss
Carved ceiling light, by Amuneal
An organic shape, by Cedar & Moss
INFORMATION
American Street Showroom can be visited by appointment only. For more information, visit their website
Photography: Stuart Goldenberg
ADDRESS
American Street Showroom
2201 North American Street
Philadelphia, PA 19133
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