Matéria, previously Simone DeSousa Gallery, is a contemporary art gallery and project located in Cass Corridor, Midtown Detroit, since 2009. Its second location in Core City opened on September 9th of this year.
“Detroit-based Turkish-born Bilge Nur Saltik’s studio, Form&Seek, was established in 2013, shortly after she received her master’s degree in Product Design from the Royal College of Art in London. Nur’s intent is to incorporate culture with contemporary design. Pairing the old with the new, she works with traditional craftsmen, tapping into their age-old techniques and knowledge, while layering them with new materials and fabrication processes.
Form&Seek design studio, led by Bilge Nur Saltik, focuses on the exploration of novel processes and the integration of contemporary craft techniques with local influences from around the world. Placing a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, materials, and the creative journey, Form&Seek studio is dedicated to crafting one-of-a-kind, functional, and whimsical objects.”
In conjunction with Detroit’s Month of Design, this solo project from Nur adapts to both art and design. The handmade wool rugs, which are manufactured in Turkey using traditional methods, bring Nur’s designs to life.
The planters are 3D printed in PLA plastic which is a vegetable-based plastic that breaks down in half the time of chemical-based plastics. In a harmonious palette, the soft curves of the rugs complement the wavy lines of the planters.
These pieces are 3D printed in PLA plastic as well. They can be installed individually or in multiple components as a full-scale sculpture while simultaneously functioning as lighting.
The grand opening of this new space presents a scalable collection that incorporates craft and technology delivering work that is attractive with a practical purpose while considering the long-term effects of production and its impact on ecology.
The drive on Warren west of Trumbull to W Grand River has dramatically changed since CAID was active on Rosa Parks and Kunsthalle Detroit briefly hosted exhibitions on the corner of Warren and W Grand River. The homes are rehabbed and beautiful. Core City is developing as businesses are opening and thriving. Just a few miles north of Corktown, the restored and reopened Michigan Central is clearly contributing to the surrounding areas’ revitalization. Bravo.
On view through October 7th at Matéria 4725 16th Street, Unit C, Detroit. The Willis location is available by appointment.
*images are mine
direct quote from gallery materials
**program note: While assisting a student exchange blades in their Exacto knife, things took an unpleasant turn and I wound up with 5 stitches in my left hand. I also received a tetanus shot which I did not react well to. I am recovering but am not myself quite yet so there will not be a review next week. I’ll be back the following week. Thank you!
SHOWS OPEN THIS WEEKEND