EJR Barnes Debuts Work Hovering Between Romantic and Pragmatic

A Room on East 79th Street marks the debut solo exhibition from London-based artist and designer EJR Barnes, presented at Emma Scully Gallery, with pieces most recently featured at Design Miami/. Barnes has made a name for himself by seamlessly blending the realms of decorative art and industrial design with a touch of romance and pragmatism. His unconventional, self-taught approach allows him to distill elements from historical design styles without being bound by formal training.

The latest showcase carries a sense of pre-nostalgia and invites visitors to a spatial experience reminiscent of something out of a magic realism novel. Unlike a traditional exhibition, Barnes opted for an approach that emotionally connects with interior arrangement rather than just presenting his creations on pedestals for passive admiration. Barnes expanded his usual repertoire, including not only larger furniture pieces and lighting, but also smaller items like glassware, flatware, and textiles.

“I have no interest in throwing expensive materials at something just for the sake of it,” says Barnes. “I care much more about elevating more ordinary materials to the same level. For example, folding steel is a fairly straightforward process, and the material isn’t particularly costly compared to more luxurious metals. But with the right designs and meticulous polishing, it can become exceptionally beautiful and maintain a subtle charm.”

One of Barnes’ distinguishing features is his choice of materials, which often lies just beyond the boundaries of contemporary design. He skillfully uses these unconventional materials to elevate everyday objects through a thoughtful and clever manufacturing process. In doing so, Barnes explores the allure of aesthetic sophistication without sacrificing practicality and ease of use.

For more information on A Room on East 79th Street, visit emmascullygallery.com.

Photography by Joe Kramm.

Source: design-milk