The second annual Next Level designer showcase will be open May 17 to 24 during NYCxDesign.
Launched in 2018 as an ephemeral design gallery, Next Level challenges traditional profit-led tradeshow formats and conventional gallery curation, blurring the line between art and design. Instead, it operates as a benevolent ecosystem in which over 40 premier independent designers and artists collectively display their work, showcasing community’s role in creation and acknowledging their connection to each other and to the larger world.
This credo comes to life over two floors in NoHo, hosted by Next Level founders: Asher Isrealow Studio, a furniture and architecture studio; designer and artist Patrick Weder; Hart Textiles; collaborative art and design platform Here Projects; and Eskayel, a textile design studio. Within the 9,000-square-foot space, a minimalist backdrop honors each participating designer’s unique aesthetic, while allowing for the organic unfolding of a harmonious whole.
Participating designers include A Space, Alex Lithgow, Andrea Claire Studio, Asher Isrealow, AVO, Avran Rusu, B Zippy, Suna Bonometti, Bobby Sukrachand, Dane Co., DLV, Dorian Goldman, Erickson Aesthetics, Eskayel, Estudiopersona, Fiddle & Hammer, Fort Makers, Gentner Design, Here Projects, Molly Findlay, Paige Martin, Nikki Tsukamoto, Hart Textiles, Kin & Co., LAUN, Laviva Home, NITA, Noble Goods, O&G Studio, OSO Industries, Patrick Weder, Peg Woodworking, Tamika Rivera, Tala, Token, SIN, Volk Furniture, Work in Use and Wud.
Next Level actively acknowledges its role within and responsibility to its greater community through a partnership with world-renowned Asian emporium Pearl River Mart, which has donated rice-paper lanterns for customization by 70 New York City artists. Pearl River, a family-run retailer in downtown Manhattan, has served as an inspiration and resource to generations of New Yorkers since 1971. Bulbs for the lanterns will be donated by Tala, a young British lighting brand that is guided by the founding promise of Conservation Through Beauty.
The lanterns will be displayed over 3,000 square feet within the Next Level space and sold via an online platform, with a percentage of the proceeds going to the Robin Hood Foundation, a charitable organization which attempts to alleviate problems caused by poverty in New York City.
Dynamic programming by HERE PROJECTS further enriches the progressive setting. Featuring everything from opening and closing events to industry panels and talks to live performances by DJs, dancers and special guests; it celebrates the collaborators’ connecting threads and varied inspirations. Visit the event website for a full list of programs.
