Héctor Esrawe's first US exhibition explores the artistry and heritage of Mexican creatives

Héctor Esrawe presents ‘Transmutation’, a sculptural series which nods to Mexico’s ancestral history in metalsmithing, on show at New York's Chelsea Gallery (until 25 April 2024)

Héctor Esrawe Gear Table, 2023
(Image credit: Alejandro-Ramirez)

With an embedded appreciation for artisanal processes, Héctor Esrawe is known for uniting architecture and contemporary design. Now, with his first solo exhibition in the US, ‘ Transmutation’ showcases his recent sculptural lights and tables ‘Gear’, which nods to his Mexican heritage, and the country’s artistry.

The showcase presented in New York’s Chelsea Gallery explores Esrawe’s mastery of metalsmithing practices, while also revealing three new ‘Gear’ pieces that have formed from conversation between the artist and gallery founder Melanie Courbet.

Héctor Esrawe presents ‘Transmutation’

Héctor Esrawe Gear Table, 2023

(Image credit: Alejandro-Ramirez)

Based in Mexico City, Esrawe hones in on the city’s crafts heritage, and unites other like-minded artists in a pursuit to keep the expertise of artisans alive. ‘Transmutation’ is a curated catalogue of Esrawe’s best work including lighting, furniture, and decorative objects, which are deeply rooted in Mexico’s ancestral history. Esrawe carefully intertwines modern techniques with time-honoured processes, which are tied together with reconceptualised materials.

Héctor Esrawe Gear Table, 2023

(Image credit: Alejandro-Ramirez)

‘Gear’ is inspired by patterns within mathematics, the intricate nature of geometry, and repeating sequences. As a result, the cardboard takes form a series of honeycomb cells, a pattern unique to Esrawe’s designs. The utilitarian sequence is hand crafted, and then cast in bronze or aluminium which elevates the seemingly rudimentary cardboard. The mixed-mediums give texture and dynamic movement to the designs, presenting the elegance that can be discovered within a common and accessible material.

Complimenting ‘Gear’, Esrawe will also display his ‘Parabola’ lights. The series adventures into the outcomes of how light interacts with metal surfaces, all on varying scales.

Héctor Esrawe’s ‘Transmutation’ is on display at Chelsea Gallery until 25 April 2024

Chelsea Gallery
134 Tenth Ave.NY, 
NY 10011

hectoresrawe.com

Hector Esrawe Ateliers Courbet Gear Side Table Bronze

(Image credit: Alejandro Ramirez Orozco)

Hector Esrawe Ateliers Courbet Gear Side Table Bronze Aluminum

Hector Esrawe Ateliers Courbet Gear Side Table Bronze Aluminium

(Image credit: Alejandro Ramirez Orozco)

Hector Esrawe Workshop 20HR

(Image credit: Alejandro Ramirez Orozco)
Staff Writer

Tianna Williams is Wallpaper*s staff writer. Before joining the team in 2023, she contributed to BBC Wales, SurfGirl Magazine, Parisian Vibe, The Rakish Gent, and Country Life, with work spanning from social media content creation to editorial. When she isn’t writing extensively across varying content pillars ranging from design, and architecture to travel, and art, she also helps put together the daily newsletter. She enjoys speaking to emerging artists, designers, and architects, writing about gorgeously designed houses and restaurants, and day-dreaming about her next travel destination.

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