We are at 38 Rue du Temple, within steps of the Centre Pompidou. This is where Friedman Benda will open, at the beginning of next year, a new gallery covering over 500 square meters. Founded in 2007, Friedman Benda debuted by presenting a review of the final works of the innovative Italian architect and designer, Ettore Sottsass. Over the past 16 years, the gallery has developed a rigorous and investigative program, embracing disciplines ranging from industrial design, craftsmanship, architecture, art, and technology. The gallery supports many of the leading figures in contemporary design, alongside emerging voices and significant artistic legacies, spanning across five continents and five generations.
Taking the helm as Director of the new Parisian gallery will be Astrid Malingreau, who comes to Friedman Benda having gained experience from her eponymous design advisory and a previous career in the Design department at Christie’s, New York.
Co-founder Marc Benda has stated, “We are convinced that we have a lot to offer this incredible city, home to a discerning audience, an unparalleled number of major museums supporting the arts, and a vibrant community of educated collectors. Paris, an inspiration for creatives worldwide, is every artist’s dream. My personal journey in design began here nearly thirty years ago.”
Partner Jennifer Olshin expressed excitement about joining this historic ecosystem, envisioning a new context, and a unique exchange with the Parisian public and the studios they represent. The team is thrilled at the prospect of contributing to the cultural landscape of this vibrant city that everyone loves.
Features from the gallery include works by notable studios such as: Ron Arad, Ini Archibong, Daniel Arsham, Andrea Branzi, Estúdio Campana, Wendell Castle, Byung Hoon Choi, Paul Cocksedge, Carmen D’Apollonio, Andile Dyalvane, Najla El Zein, Misha Kahn, Shiro Kuramata, Joris Laarman, Fernando Laposse, Raphael Navot, nendo, Gaetano Pesce, Samuel Ross, Chris Schanck, Ettore Sottsass, Faye Toogood, Thaddeus Wolfe, and Lebbeus Woods.
