Hardwood hero: a father of Brazilian modernist design is remembered in NY

R & Company in New York is currently hosting an important retrospective on the late Brazilian modernist pioneer Sérgio Rodrigues
R & Company in New York is currently hosting an important retrospective on the late Brazilian modernist pioneer Sérgio Rodrigues
(Image credit: TBC)

When Brazilian modernist designer Sérgio Rodrigues passed away in 2014, he left behind a legacy. Affectionately called ‘the father of Brazilian furniture’, Rodrigues was considered a pioneer of the modern architecture and design movement, responsible for helping to shape and draw attention to a Brazilian identity in the field. This month, he is being honoured with a solo exhibition of work at R & Company in New York.

Presenting a curated overview of some of Rodrigues’ most notable furniture, the exhibition also showcases a selection of unique custom pieces from the designer’s extensive career, spanning over 60 years.

Hardwood hero: a father of Brazilian modernist design is remembered in NY

Installation view at R & Company in New York

(Image credit: TBC)

Among many things, Rodrigues was known for sourcing all his material locally. Using indigenous hardwoods such as jacaranda, imbuia and peroba, the designer would pair them with soft woven leathers, creating a sharp contrast to the polished wood.

Emblematic of that practice is Rodrigues’ classic 'Tonico' armchair, created for Meia Pateca in 1963, which features thick jacaranda wood slabs and dowels complemented by leather cushions. The chair graced the cover of Brazil Modern: The Rediscovery of Twentieth-Century Brazilian Furniture and was featured in an exposition at the Museum of Modern Art in Rio de Janeiro. That armchair, along with Rodrigues’ 'Cuiabá' chairs – made in 1988 and which feature his his signature circle-cut out motif inspired by airplane windows – will both be on display.

The exhibition marks the designer’s third solo show with the gallery, and the first since his death. After opening earlier this month, the exhibition will continue until 13 April.

Hardwood hero: a father of Brazilian modernist design is remembered in NY

Rodrigues was known for pairing indigenous hardwoods such as jacaranda, imbuia and peroba with soft woven leathers

(Image credit: TBC)

Hardwood hero: a father of Brazilian modernist design is remembered in NY

Rodrigues’ classic ’Tonico’ armchair (right) features thick jacaranda wood slabs and dowels complemented by leather cushions

(Image credit: TBC)

INFORMATION
’Sérgio Rodrigues’ is on view until 13 April. For more information, visit the R & Company website

ADDRESS 

R & Company
82 Franklin Street
New York 10013

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