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Four Single Material Chairs Push the Limits in X_x_X

X_x_X (pronounced “X by X”), the debut solo exhibition of Ford Bostwick, was recently on view at design gallery B.Y.B STUDIO. Four chairs, each crafted with a singular material and at the same scale, are included in the collection. The title is a nod to the square cross-section of materials, ranging from 1×1-inch sticks to 4×4-inch beams, that all of the chairs have in common. Regularly working across architecture, engineering, and furniture design, it’s here, in the dimensions, that Bostwick’s decision making truly shines.

4 x 4 chair, 2023, pine, 18 x 19.5 x 32 in 45.5 x 49.5 x 81 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

“Rather than a typical line where a family of furniture shares a material or visual logic, X_x_X takes one parameter and explores it across scale and material in chairs,” Bostwick shared. “I’ll expand the series to incorporate larger and smaller parts, different materials, and other types of furniture over time.”

4 x 4 chair, 2023, pine, 18 x 19.5 x 32 in 45.5 x 49.5 x 81 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

The designer’s background influences how digital and analog fabrication techniques are used in his furniture pieces. The construction process is streamlined to prioritize simplicity, with aesthetics naturally emerging during the design process. Bostwick’s design philosophy is centered on creating chairs that are robust, comfortable, and portable. His restraint in construction highlights each piece’s material and allows it to work seamlessly with other furniture styles.

4 x 4 chair, 2023, pine, 18 x 19.5 x 32 in 45.5 x 49.5 x 81 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

“Physical materials are embedded with rich cultural and symbolic meaning, so I try not to overwork them. Trees are directly tied to human evolution, both physically and culturally, and aluminum has a complex and dramatic origin story. The ways humans extract, process, and reshape materials into everything we know is so interesting to me,” he explained.

2 x 2 chair, 2023, oak, 18 x 20.5 x 32 in 45.5 x 52 x 81 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

Homage is paid to the fashion boutiques located in B.Y.B STUDIO’s neighborhood via the installation of sitting-height mirrors that allowed visitors to actively engage with the chairs. Those who were able to stop by in person also had the opportunity to explore Bostwick’s creative world through a six-hour video that unfolds in real-time in his workshop.

2 x 2 chair, 2023, oak, 18 x 20.5 x 32 in 45.5 x 52 x 81 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

2 x 2 chair, 2023, oak, 18 x 20.5 x 32 in 45.5 x 52 x 81 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

1 x 1 chair, 2023, pine, 21.5 x 22.5 x 32 in 54.5 x 57 x 81 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

1 x 1 chair, 2023, pine, 21.5 x 22.5 x 32 in 54.5 x 57 x 81 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

1 x 1 chair, 2023, pine, 21.5 x 22.5 x 32 in 54.5 x 57 x 81 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

1 x 1 chair, 2023. aluminum, 23 x 20 x 30.5 in 58.5 x 51 x 77.5 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

1 x 1 chair, 2023. aluminum, 23 x 20 x 30.5 in 58.5 x 51 x 77.5 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

1 x 1 chair, 2023. aluminum, 23 x 20 x 30.5 in 58.5 x 51 x 77.5 cm \\\ Photo: Ford Bostwick

To learn more about the X_x_X exhibit, visit bybstudionyc.com.

Kelly Beall is Director of Branded Content at Design Milk. The Pittsburgh-based writer and designer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, from Fashion Plates to MoMA and far beyond. When not searching out the visual arts, she's likely sharing her favorite finds with others. Kelly can also be found tracking down new music, teaching herself to play the ukulele, or on the couch with her three pets – Bebe, Rainey, and Remy. Find her @designcrush on social.