Close Contact exhibition

CLOSE CONTACT is an exhibition presented by Norm Architects, Kinfolk and Sørensen Leather. An intimate exploration of the sphere versus our own human form. Photographed by Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen, partner and co-founder of Norm Architects, the highly tactile and sculptural series juxtaposes the texture of the skin with leather spheres co-created with Sørensen Leather and creative direction by Nathan Williams, co-founder of Kinfolk.

The sphere is a fascinating form. Consider the Earth, our eyes and the perfect pearl. Or symbolic spheres, like our circle of friends and family. Even the womb, where we first experienced a close sense of contact.

On a philosophical level, many have questioned the sphere and its significance. Dating back to Plato, the origins of humans were described in mythical terms as spherical entities, with men as descendants from the sun, women from the earth and the third sex from the moon. In Greek Mythology, Zeus is said to have split each of them in two, creating an urge in all of us to find our other half for a sense of wholeness.

Some words from the creators:

“The images highlight the contrasts and connections between geometric and anthropomorphic shapes, the latter referring to the Greek words anthropos and morphe meaning human form. Elements fundamental to our design process. The beautiful look and feel of leather is universal. In my mind, it stems from a connectivity with our own skin and a deeper, innate desire to connect with nature.” - Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen, Norm Architects

“Our aim with The Kinfolk Gallery has been to create an open space to share with our community, and the Close Contact collaboration with Norm Architects and Sørensen Leather is a great example of the creative synergy we envision for the venue. The mix of mediums and materials used for the exhibition is an extension of the cross-disciplinary approach we use for our editorial and has allowed us to experiment outside the pages of the magazine.” - Nathan Williams, Kinfolk 

“At Sørensen, our entire universe revolves around sensations. The subtleties you feel when you touch the surfaces. The nuances in colors that draw you closer. We were looking for a new way of showing leather beyond furniture – in art. A realm that’s more open, abstract and inspiring. So people can see how leather elevates even a simple shape or object into art.” - Louise Vesterskov Sørensen, Sørensen Leather.

The collaborative exhibition is currently on display at The Kinfolk Gallery in Copenhagen, a minimalist space designed by Norm Architects, and comprises ten large-scale, limited edition artworks finished in glass alongside 100 portfolios of smaller prints. All works are for sale and the exhibit is open to the public Monday to Friday from 10:00-16:00 until October 31st at Amagertorv 14, first floor.

Photography by Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen