ShowPDX: Design That Is Both Innovative and Functional

Wednesday, October 01, 2014

Karina Skauge, GoLocalPDX Contributor

With Design Week Portland just around the corner, it's time to start turning our eyes to several design events that are popping up around town, such as the design exhibition known as ShowPDX 2014.

"Tranquility of the Expanse" Photo and Design by Marisa Green & Peter Bogart

ShowPDX is a juried exhibit of new, local, functional and innovative furniture.

Opening Oct. 1 in what was, until Sept. 30, the home of Cargo, ShowPDX will feature 200 art pieces in a 10,000-square-foot venue.

For the exhibit, ShowPDX is collaborating with Rejuvenation to award one exhibitor the opportunity to present its work to a larger audience through the Development Award; this honor gives the craftsman the chance to bring his or her product to the market through storytelling, marketing, and local manufacturing resources.

Kickstarter Campaign

That won’t be the only award given. There will be awards for “Best in Show” from first to fifth place. In addition, ShowPDX Founders Jennifer Jako and Chris Bleiler hope to make this event a yearly occurence and have kickstarted a campaign to develop grants, sponsorships and collaborations for makers.

The jury of the show consists of individuals with backgrounds in architecture, art and fabrication.

Jurors include: John Hoke, Nike Global Creative Director; Margarette Leite, Assistant Professor of Architecture; Alex Bellos, Vice President of Rejuvenation; Jennifer Jako and Chris Bleiler, Founders of ShowPDX; and others.

"Bonded Chairs" Photo and Design By Karla Tull-Esterbrook

Open to the public from Oct. 2-14 and free of charge, this show will showcase the kind of design and innovation Portland has to offer. ShowPDX has made a point of motivating the community to create new work; this gives them the opportunity to show off their recent work. Exhibitors range from furniture makers to design students. No one is counted out.

So, before Design Week Portland officially starts on Saturday, be sure to check out ShowPDX 2014 and all the great innovative, functional furniture designs created by local artisans.

380 NW 13th, 503-284-6650, Opening Reception, 6 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 1; open to the public, Tuesday-Sunday, Oct. 2-14, For a complete list of exhibitors and more information visit their website.

Homepage Photo By Matt Cartwright