Ximi Li is a master of crafting furniture that truly stands out. The collection, called 'MONOCHROME Basic', is a testament to the beauty of raw materiality and the unpredictability of authentic craftsmanship.
Through intricate folding, bending, and welding, Li has managed to create chairs and tables that are both functional and visually stunning. The robustness of the aluminum, coupled with the welding scars that give each piece its unique character, lend a sense of organic fluidity to the objects.
'Basic' is the brainchild of Li, who was commissioned by MONOCHROME, an independent branch of furniture design brand URBANCRAFT. The collection is a bold exploration of the uncertainty of materiality and industrial craftwork, embracing the outcomes of Li's experimental process. Using only aluminum as the primary building material, Li challenges established design and structural logics, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with this versatile metal.
The team at URBANCRAFT notes that the collection preserves the state between manual and industrial production, ensuring consistency in design process and expression. The welding scars, which have become a unique label throughout the series, are retained to highlight the natural form of the material and the organic process of creation.
The resulting minimalist, modern, and raw aesthetic of the collection is marked with unexpected outcomes and nuanced welding scars. Ximi Li's open-ended experimentations with aluminum have led to the creation of sculptural bar and dining tables, stools, and chairs, all of which boast a monochromatic elegance that is both subtle and striking.
In a world where furniture design is often mass-produced and lacking in character, 'Basic' is a refreshing departure from the norm. It is a celebration of the beauty of raw materials and the craftsmanship of the artisan. The collection is a testament to the enduring appeal of simplicity, authenticity, and creativity.
