Chair Stories Take Center Stage at Museum of Vancouver
This summer, the Museum of Vancouver invites everyone to take a seat—literally! With not one, but two brand-new exhibits dedicated to the humble chair, visitors can journey through the city’s past and glimpse its sustainable future, all from a fresh perspective.
Deep-Seated Histories: Every Chair Tells a Tale
Step into Deep-Seated Histories and you’ll discover 150 fascinating chairs, each with its own story. From plush barber shop recliners to sturdy church pews, these seats trace Vancouver’s social, cultural, and industrial evolution. Some chairs are linked to local legends and landmarks, like Joe Fortes’ Morris Chair or a bar stool from Little Sister’s Book & Art Emporium. Others, like the mysterious night watchman’s chair from the Ship Inn, spark curiosity and wonder about their origins.
Curator Denise Fong and her team dug deep into records to uncover the hidden stories behind each piece. Even when the origins were unclear, the chairs themselves became windows into the city’s history, connecting visitors to the everyday lives of Vancouverites across generations.
Future Makers: Sustainability Meets Creative Design
While Deep-Seated Histories looks back, Future Makers gazes forward. Here, students from the KPU Wilson School of Design transformed reclaimed mahogany into innovative chairs, blending creativity with environmental responsibility. Their challenge? To rethink how we make and use objects in a world of over-consumption.
Out of 15 unique designs, two stood out for their sustainable vision. Andre Beeche Lacle’s “Masenity” draws inspiration from Guatemalan traditions, encouraging a closer connection to the earth. Jodh Sidhu’s “A-Chair” dazzles with its sharp, origami-like lines—proof that eco-friendly can also be cutting-edge.
Best of all, these student-designed chairs will be auctioned, with proceeds supporting Indigenous-led reforestation in Guatemala. It’s a win for design, sustainability, and global community.
Why Focus on Chairs?
According to curator Viviane Gosselin, chairs are the perfect lens for exploring both design and daily life. By zooming in on one familiar object, the museum uncovers surprising differences and stories, revealing how even the simplest things can reflect a city’s character and values.
Visit and Take a Seat in Vancouver’s Story
Whether you’re a history buff, a design lover, or just curious, the Museum of Vancouver’s summer exhibits promise a fresh look at the city—one chair at a time. Don’t miss your chance to sit with history and dream about the future!
Museum of Vancouver
Website: museumofvancouver.ca
Location: 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC
Come for the chairs, stay for the stories!
