We search for meaning in art. Yet in design, we’re often made to feel as though the ‘designed’ object is either an aesthetic form to marvel or a functional form to use. For the past decade, the art world has been preoccupied with the ‘everyday’, ‘domestic’ object and the infinite stories behind these objects. In design, it is rare for the designers themselves to tell a story beyond the form itself. A new exhibition at Object Gallery in Surry Hills, Stories In Form, provides that platform.

Stories In Form, will showcase the work of five Australian designers — Elliat Rich, bernabeifreeman, Henry Wilson, Cinnamon Lee and Ben McCarthy —  and is curated by Jacqueline Power.

Henry Wilson, winner of the 2011 Bombay Sapphire Award will feature alongside other talented Australian designers including Elliat Rich, Bernabeifreeman (Rina Bernabei and Kelly Freeman), Cinnamon Lee and Ben McCarthy. With products on display ranging from dining chairs, to lights and bowls, these are everyday objects that are framed in a new way.

Stories in Form will look at the dynamic process that involves designers, products and owners in the storytelling process. From the initial ideas that inspire the product, to changes in the object resulting from use, every product has a story.

A series of dining chairs by Alice Springs based designer Elliat Rich will be presented at various stages of wear. Over the course of their life, the chairs become more beautiful as a result of their interaction with the owner.

Eliat Rich's chair

Bernabeifreeman, offer lights that provide the potential for users to complete the making process. The perforated aluminium lights allow room for new memories to be made by being involved in the making of the product.

Henry Wilson has made changes to well known forms by attaching new elements to the product or adapting existing ones. His work tells tales of the designer’s creative process.

A number of lights by metalsmith Cinnamon Lee are closely associated with their manufacture. The story of a product’s making is often overlooked but speaks of changing technologies and the making practice.

Lamp shades by Cinnamon Lee

Ben McCarthy’s bowl is intended for use.  Each chip and scratch made by the owner leaves a mark on the surface, but also marks a moment in his or her life and slowly changes the character of the bowl.

A dish by Ben McCarthy