Radical Acts

Harewood House Biennial 2023. March - August

We were commissioned (again) by Harewood House to design and install the 2nd Harewood Biennial exhibition. Titled Radical Acts, this show presented the work of 15 designers addressing the ‘social issues and environmental urgencies’ to quote curator Hugo Macdonald.

In contrast to the many traditional craft techniques and materials featured in the show we elected to make all of the exhibition furniture and way finding using a new kind of aluminium sheet produced from 90% recycled content. Aluminium is notable amongst metals in that it can be recycled infinitely without loss of quality, using a fraction of the high energy input required in its production.

We used a combination of 3mm and 1.5mm sheet together with aluminium tube to create tables, plinths, and signage for the exhibits. The anodised finish finish of the sheet is ideal for both internal and external use around the house and wider estate. Graphic designers Studio Build created a new typeface for the exhibition, as part of their design for the interpretation and way finding.

Any aluminium not reused after the exhibition will be sent back into the recycling loop. Thanks to Novelis for generously supplying the Aluminium for Radical Acts.