Marina Abramović has introduced Elephant in the Room, her first-ever furniture collection, in collaboration with Mexican design studio La Metropolitana. The collection debuted during Mexico City Art Week, running from February 4th to 28th, in a specially curated exhibition and performance at Laguna, a former factory space redesigned by Productora.
Crafted from reclaimed Rosa Morada and Cocobolo wood, the chairs feature traditional joinery and copper details, including plates affixed beneath them like horseshoes. The collection includes two chair variations—one with a high back and no arms, and another with a curved wooden arm—alongside a conceptual piece named Elephant, which features an elongated backrest wrapped in copper.
Abramović and La Metropolitana sought to highlight the ethical “elephants in the room,” such as the exploitation of rare woods and the erosion of traditional craftsmanship. The artist described the project as a way to transcend utility, imbuing objects with energy and deeper meaning.
The exhibition layout reinforced these ideas, positioning the chairs both upright and overturned on pedestals, with Elephant standing at the center. Abramović also performed in the space, using the installation as an extension of her artistic practice.
Don’t miss our insightful conversation with Marina Abramović and Michèle Lamy, where they share their perspectives on art, freedom, and creativity.
