While being in Seoul for the Frieze Art Fair, I was invited by MCM to explore The Upcycle Project, a 20-piece exhibit by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori, who is known for his playful design approach, at the MCM HAUS Flagship in Seoul.
Through emotion and perspective, the pieces in this collection converge at the junction of fashion and contemporary art. A true reflection of Ilori’s signature approach, the collaboration thrives on diverse color motifs, architecture, and spaces to encourage visitors to see new perspectives.
(Part 1) «There is Good in All of Us» on then ground floor of the store features an assortment of 10 renewed chairs that incorporate unused Visetos materials. By repurposing and revitalizing materials, the collaboration highlights the importance of environmental consciousness and responsible consumption.
«Complementing each artwork is a kaleidoscope, enticing visitors into a dance of colors and patterns.»
— Yinka Ilori
(Part 2) «Looking at Me», the latter half of the exhibit on the third floor of the shop, features a mix of Ilori’s older works alongside new ones from his most recent collection. The first six chairs reflect Ilori’s memories of growing up in London as a British Nigerian and explores heritage, culture and family.
The next four (from a new collection titled «All of Us») are bolder, more unapologetic and expressive to capture Ilori’s coming of age as an artist and designer.
«It’s an invitation to delve deeper, to discover the beauty beneath the overt, signifying an unending cycle of growth, balance, and rejuvenation.»
— Yinka Ilori
The pieces are on display at the MCM HAUS Flagship Store in Seoul from 4 September until 22 October, 2023. All works of art can be purchased at MCM HAUS, Seoul, after 22 October, 2023. For more information, please click here.
MCM HAUS
412 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu
Seoul, South Korea
11am- 8pm
+82 2-540-1404
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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