Philip Michael Wolfson’s biography
In the 21st century, architecture aspires to sculpture on a monumental scale and on a different level, experimental furniture design is at the forefront, approaching fine art with just that relative element of function.
Born 1958 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of a NASA engineer. He studied architecture at Cornell University, Ithaca, New York and at the Architectural Association, London, England, where he was discovered by Zaha Hadid. After completing his studies he spent the next ten years as head of design with her. In 1991 Wolfson established his own studio and has worked throughout Europe and the USA on residential interiors and functional art pieces shown at leading international art and design exhibitions, galleries, and public venues.
He has established his distinctive pathway, re-examining the forms and ideas of the early 20th century Modernist movements, particularly Constructivism and Futurism. His unique approach to design and art is informed by the dynamics of fracture and fragmentation – layering and manipulating his materials into fluid shapes and forms, where the dynamics of light, shadow and reflection are an integral part of the seduction of the work. They are elegant, graceful designs, easily resembling elongated black swan wings in repose; layered geological contortions, or the energetic movements of an impassioned orchestral conductor. The exquisite use of noble materials woods, glass, metals and stones, as well as new materials, such as carbon fiber, brings dynamic elegance and an individual contemporary feeling that enhances his unique approach. Works by Philip Michael Wolfson have been shown at, or are included in numerous international collections including the Victoria and Albert Museum (London. UK), the Foundation Cartier (Paris, FR), and the Price Tower Arts Center (Bartlesville, USA). His designs are on display at renowned galleries Contrasts, Shanghai; Franziska Kessler, Zurich; Sebastian + Barquet, New York, at high-profile design art fairs Art Basel, Design Miami, Salone Internazionale del Mobile, Milan, TEFAF, Maastricht and thru the auction houses, Christies and Phillips de Pury in London and New York.
