Australian artist and designer Ash Allen presents Lines of Force as part of the 2026 Melbourne Design Week at Abbotsford Convent.
This new body of work sits between sculpture and furniture, reinterpreting three iconic Australian-designed chairs by three leading female designers. Referencing pieces by Simone LeAmon (Lepidoptera), Helen Kontouris (101 Chair), and Laura (I-Beam Bench), Allen’s chairs are not replicas, but slow, one-off reinterpretations.
“The overall dimensions of each chair are similar to the original, but mine are constructed in steel weldmesh,” Allen says.
The project initially emerged from Ash’s desire to shine a light on the widespread replica furniture trade in Australia.
“The replica trade is all about fast production and low cost. So I chose to make a slow-made re-interpretation that pays homage to the designers.”
Crucially, the three original designers are supportive of Allen’s concept, and will be present during his exhibition opening.
“Australia’s design industry is relatively small, and people work together and help each other out,” says Ash.
Materially, the works mark a continued exploration of steel mesh, which Allen began experimenting with during COVID.
“I was drawn to steel mesh because its malleable and versatile, but I didn’t want to just create cold, square furniture. I’ve found a way to make my pieces curvaceous and strong,” he said.
“I like the negative space created by the mesh, and the shadows it casts. It’s ghostly in a way.”
All three chairs exhibited in Lines of Force will be for sale, and Ash says he hopes “they go to a good home”.
Lines of Force
14 — 24 May
St Heliers Street Gallery