Fast and Present: New Work by Johnny Swing

Sculptural furniture designs inspired by aquatic life.

Founded in 1997, R & Company represents distinguished contemporary artists and designers, focusing on 20th and 21st century design. In September, the gallery will showcase the work of one of the world’s most imaginative furniture designers, artist Johnny Swing. He is best known for his welded coin furniture, with some of his work included in the permanent collections of prestigious institutions and museums as well as sculpture parks like the Storm King Art Center. The “Fast and Present: New Work by Johnny Swing” solo show is not only the artist’s first with R & Company but also his first NY exhibition since 2012.

Inspired by aquatic life, the centerpiece of the show features seven nesting works that combine in a monumental composition. The artist named the work Septem Maria (Seven Seas), and has executed it in two unique versions. Creating the components involved several steps, from making the molds to welding the coins and the steel frame. The seven zoomorphic works have an organic form reminiscent of aquatic species. Indeed, the name of each work references sea life, whether using the species’ Latin or nautical terminology.

The exhibition will feature two artist proofs of Seven Seas; one with pressed nickels and the other with pressed presidential dollar coins. While only available to purchase as whole artworks, art lovers can commission any of the seven individual works. Their modular design allows the creation of various arrangements in a nesting structure. However, each nature-inspired piece is also suitable to use individually.

A series of the artist’s Archipelago tables and a retrospective of his early work will accompany Septem Maria. The “Fast and Present: New Work by Johnny Swing” show opens on 10 September 2020 at the gallery’s 64 White Street location and will be on view until 31 October. Photographs© Johnny Swing.