A unique piece of design and craftsmanship will take centre stage at Dublin’s upcoming art fair, Art Evolve, when a €9,500 chair crafted from rare Valentia slate makes its public debut.
The chair, created by award-winning architect and furniture designer Edwyn James Hickey, is one of the standout exhibits at the new event, which takes place at the RDS from April 4th to 6th.
The slate used in its construction hails from a historic quarry on Valentia Island in Kerry—the same source that provided stone for iconic landmarks such as Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the Paris Opera House.
The story behind the chair began when Hickey, a Limerick native, discovered the history of the Valentia slate quarry while working on a project on the island. Inspired by the dramatic, cathedral-like chambers of the quarry, he set about designing a piece that would honour the geological and cultural heritage of the area.
The resulting chair features 210 kilograms of this unique stone, used in its striking side panels, while the seat is constructed from engineered folded steel and upholstered in black German leather. "It's super comfortable," said Hickey. "My work is about making things practical as well as aesthetically pleasing".
The quarry itself, originally opened in 1816 and once employing over 450 workers, was revived in 2018 by Killarney geologist Dr Aidan Forde. In 2023, Valentia Slate was officially recognised as a globally significant heritage stone.
"It is a statement piece, says the designer. "This is going to be a rare stone in the future. There's not an endless supply of it. When people buy a piece like this, they're buying into that."
Organised by the Contemporary Art Gallery Association (CAGA) in partnership with established galleries, Art Evolve brings together 70 galleries and artists to showcase the best of Irish and international contemporary art.
Also featured is a major installation by renowned street artist Maser, offering an immersive exploration of the different stages of his artistic journey. Other highlights include works by acclaimed Cork painter Tom Climent, Italian artist Sandro Chia, and celebrated Irish sculptor Rowan Gillespie, whose Famine sculptures on Dublin’s Custom House Quay are internationally recognised.
According to event organiser Patrick O’Sullivan, Art Evolve aims to provide a platform for both seasoned collectors and curious newcomers. "This is the ideal opportunity to experience some of the best contemporary art currently being created in Ireland and to get expert advice from leading galleries," he said.
Art Evolve is at the RDS from April 4 to 6 - find out more here.
