Architectural Digest: Pragmatic, ironic, and poetic, this is the sculptural collection conceived by Joel Escalona
Words by Gabriela Estrada • Transcript from Original article written in 2019
Challenging the limits of contemporary design, Joel Escalona, one of the most influential designers in the Mexican creative scene - and a member of the Editorial Council of Architectural Digest Mexico - created an exclusive furniture collection for the Breuer brand that was unveiled at ZONAMACO 2019.
The anthology titled Laws of Motion is a series of different typologies such as mirrors, tables, and seating that articulate the great rigor in the productive execution of the company and the level of introspection achieved by the celebrated designer. Only available in a limited edition of nine pieces, plus two author's proofs, each functional sculpture of immaculate silhouette combines materials such as oak, marble, and metal that, when carefully transformed by Breuer, demonstrate the unique result that is achieved through their bespoke carpentry.
Through Laws of Motion, the Mexican creative explores concrete ideas such as gravity, force, and movement, and how they can be expressed and materialized in objects. "Where do I come from? What sustains me? Do I fit in? How do I look? What separates me from others? How do others see me? How fragile am I? What does this mean for you? Can I? Where am I going? Should I? Should I continue or stop? Is this how I will be remembered?"
Vulnerable to this series of questions, Joel conceived new meanings for each of them, which shape the seductive pieces in the collection.
"There are objects that define us better than a thousand biographies. Objects that are apparently static, to which we usually do not attribute a value beyond their function, such as containing, guarding, or simply decorating, but that define us, as they hide a second unexpectedly personal meaning," Escalona said.
Laws of Motion is the first show of collectible design created by Joel for Breuer; pieces that, when looked at, immediately captivate the viewer and envelop them in the stories they guard and that challenge the laws of movement. •
