Formal Disruption: Pierre Paulin and the State Commissions of the 1980s

Photography by William Jess Laird

Though Paulin (1927-2009) is widely recognized for his innovative and sculptural designs from the 1960s and 70s, this exhibit focuses on his later works, which challenged conventional design aesthetics with their avant-garde nature and limited edition collections. Paulin's creative journey, marked by a constant quest for modernity, has been celebrated in previous Demisch Danant exhibitions in 2011 and 2015.

Photography by William Jess Laird

Suzanne Demisch and Stéphane Danant, co-founders of Demisch Danant, have had a long-standing relationship with the Paulin family and have been promoting his work since the gallery's inception in 2005. This exhibition, which showcases models never before commercially produced, is a testament to their enduring collaboration with the Paulin estate, now managed by Pierre's son Benjamin and his wife Alice.

Photography by William Jess Laird

Pierre Paulin was a prominent figure in 20th-century French design, whose background in sculpture and influences from modernist pioneers such as George Nelson and Charles Eames shaped his approach to furniture design. Throughout his career, Paulin worked closely with Mobilier National, a French government agency responsible for administering state furniture commissions. As a result, he designed furniture and interiors for various public and private spaces, including the Élysée Palace, the Louvre Museum, and Paris City Hall.

Photography by William Jess Laird

The centerpiece of "Formal Disruption" is the Mitterrand office set, consisting of five pieces commissioned by then-French President François Mitterrand in 1985. For the first time, these works are being produced and displayed publicly, highlighting Paulin's shift from industrial to artisanal design. The exhibition also features other notable collections from the 1980s, such as Iena, Hôtel de Ville, Cathédrale, and Musée des Arts Décoratifs.

"Formal Disruption" will be on display from Thursday, April 27, 2023, through Saturday, May 27, 2023, at Demisch Danant located at 30 W 12th St New York NY 10011. Exhibition details can be found here.