Distortion is a minimal bench created by Beirut-based designer Najla El Zein for Friedman Benda. The two benches are constructed of fiber reinforced concrete and foam. According to the artist, emotional distortion leads to changes of perception, intuition as well as confusion, affecting into new proportions of realities, an alteration of the self, the being, with an inner and outer transformation. Distortion, with its series of benches, represents transformational changes of distinct spatial interactions. A sharp and bold body expands into a gentle, round and seductive form, embracing the beauty of femininity. Warm and affectionate, the object contradictorily conveys feelings of incomprehension, disconnection and isolation.

Photography by Damien Arlettaz