Porky Hefer Exhibition: Southern Guild

WORDS Malibongwe Tyilo IMAGES Justin Patrick

Southern Guild Gallery in Woodstock is hosting Monstera Deliciosa, Volume 1, the very first solo exhibition of renowned designer and creator Porky Hefer.

In this exhibition, he will premier six fantastical underwater animal-inspired hanging seating environments, transforming the gallery into a waterscape.

“My pieces get people to think about nature, and its fragility, and make them consider how to protect it,” says Porky. “They’re also about protecting local crafts so that these traditions don’t die out.” The leather covered pieces, which were sponsored by Woodheads leather merchants, have been created using local artisanal skills like weaving, stitching and splicing.

“Not many people are doing environmentally inspired pieces of this nature, and especially at this scale,” adds Southern Guild Gallery co-founder Julian McGowan. “Porky’s work pushes boundaries and perceptions of what art and design are, and ultimately what furniture is and can be.”

The show is also a unique opportunity for local audiences to see Porky’s work, which has been shown around the world for the last few years. 2015 has been particularly stellar for Porky, culminating in record prices for three of his pieces this November at Christie’s London Design Sale.

Monstera Deliciosa, Volume 1 runs from 20 November 2015 until 5 February 2016 at Southern Guild Gallery, 10 Lewin Street, Cape Town.