CHICAGO-Volume Gallery, Chicago’s newest cutting-edge design gallery, debuts with an exhibition of new works by American designer Jonathan Nesci, aptly titled: THE NEW. Volume Gallery will take over the Andrew Rafacz Gallery for the first in an ongoing series highlighting freshly commissioned work from American contemporary designers. In his first U.S. solo show, THE NEW showcases Nesci’s acute examination of the urban infrastructure. Opening reception March 19th, 6 – 8 PM at 835 West Washington Blvd. Chicago, IL 60607.

“Considered objects reveal where we are in our history, our culture, and are a reaction to our unique individual stories” ~ Jonathan Nesci

Each piece in THE NEW is born from Nesci’s observations of the world around us and the banal designs that inform our lives, forms many of us never stop to consider- the edge of a curb, the base of a street light, etc. With these pieces, Nesci picks up the torch of 20th Century design and carries it into the 21st century, stating, “I am informed by the work that has preceded me and aim to add a building block in the continually changing landscape of product and process.””

Nesci’s translated observations reflect his inspirational sources and modern design ideals through the use of industrial materials- concrete and metal. All the pieces in THE NEW, created specifically for Volume Gallery, embody the spirit of traditional American mid-century design. The finish is matte white, to absorb the light and its surroundings; the pure minimal forms, prevalent in Nesci’s body of work, echo the essence of the design in our surrounding landscape.

Jonathan Nesci (b. 1979, Chicago) and his company HALE have created a wide range of products and received recognition from leading design publications such as Wallpaper, Dwell, Metropolitan Home, Surface and Art + Auction. HALE has won the annual Wallpaper Design Award for the “Library Bookcase,” a minimalist shelf sculpted in aluminum. Jonathan’s designs have been viewed in numerous exhibitions including New York’s ICFF, Paris’ Pavillon des Arts et du Design, Design Miami, Design Art London and Milan’s Salone del Mobile.

Volume Gallery is an event-based gallery with a specific focus on American design, particularly emerging contemporary designers. Founded by design aficionados, Claire Warner and Sam Vinz, formerly of Wright Auction, the Volume Gallery releases editions, publications and exhibits that showcase the work of American designers to regional, national and international audiences. Volume asks critical questions of what it means to be an American designer in a culture that is rapidly becoming global in scale, while simultaneously examining the American experience. The Volume Gallery is derived from a compulsion to provide a platform for emerging American Designers to engage with an international audience. Visit www.wvvolumes.com for information and upcoming events.