From the sphinx-adorned marble chairs of the Romans and the silk-upholstered chairs of the Renaissance to the more modern beanbag and La-Z-Boy, seating has come a long way over the centuries. The Arkansas Arts Center will celebrate mankind’s progress in regard to sitting, seating and even reclining during “The Art of Seating” exhibition on view from Sept. 29 through Dec. 31.
“The Art of Seating: 200 Years of American Design” features 43 chairs from the Thomas H. and Diane DeMell Jacobsen Ph.D. Foundation in Jacksonville, Florida. The exhibition will examine the evolution of the American chair, touching on new technologies, materials, taste levels and cultural developments.
The exhibition will kick off with a lecture by Dr. Diane DeMell Jacobsen and member preview on Thursday, Sept. 28. The lower lobby will open at 5:30 p.m. for pre-lecture vino before the talk begins at 6. The lecture is free for members and $15 for nonmembers.
During the exhibition’s stint at the AAC, chair-related programming will offer a more in-depth look at The Art of Seating. Here are just a few of the events we’re looking forward to:
-
June Freeman Lecture Series: The Art of Architecture
Tuesday, Oct. 3,
6 p.m. lecture | 5:30 p.m. wine bar
Furniture designer Mark Goetz will give a lecture in conjunction with The Art of Seating exhibit. This event is free to the public. -
Super Sunday Free Family Funday
Sunday, Oct. 8 | Noon-3 p.m.
Kids are encouraged to design their own “dream chair” and enter the AAC’s competition. The winning chair will be built and displayed at the Arts Center. This event is free to the public.
-
Feed Your Mind Friday
Friday, Nov. 10 | Noon
Furniture design students from UA Little Rock will give a gallery talk examining works featured in The Art of Seating. This event is free to the public.
For more information about the exhibit, visit the AAC’s website or call (501) 372-4000.