Dwell on Design Artist-in-Residence: Tanya Aguiñiga

Furniture designer, craftsperson, and community activist Tanya Aguiñiga will be the artist-in-residence at Dwell on Design, bringing to the exhibition an artful, interactive process of providing handcrafted pieces to those living in Los Angeles shelters.
Text by

Dwell on Design attendees are invited to join Aguiñiga and her team of fellow artists and art students as they upcycle—through painting, weaving, and upholstering—donated chairs, tables, and blankets before donating them to the area shelters. This living installation will be curated as only Aguiñiga can, with her colorful approach to craft, materials, and view of the world around her.

Dwell on Design Artist-in-Residence: Tanya Aguiñiga - Photo 1 of 4 -

Seating Trays made of plywood, walnut veneer, cast silicone, and felt.

Dwell on Design Artist-in-Residence: Tanya Aguiñiga - Photo 2 of 4 -

The upcycling aspect will ensure as little waste as possible is created in this endeavor that will provide one-of-a-kind pieces, which will be the first objects people receive on their path to rebuilding their lives.

Dwell on Design Artist-in-Residence: Tanya Aguiñiga - Photo 3 of 4 -

The Alaska Chair is made of steel and seine twine.

"I really like the idea of an interactive piece where Dwell on Design attendees can immediately help improve the life of someone in their own community," says Aguiñiga.

Also look for Aguiñiga on the Demonstration stage as she hosts additional select craft workshops throughout the weekend.

Dwell on Design Artist-in-Residence: Tanya Aguiñiga - Photo 4 of 4 -

A trio of Aguiñiga's Felt Chairs.

This article was originally published on February 15, 2013 on our sister site, Dwell on Design.

Erika Heet
Erika Heet has been working in publishing for more than 20 years, including years spent as a senior editor at Architectural Digest and Robb Report.

Published

Last Updated

Get the Dwell Newsletter

Be the first to see our latest home tours, design news, and more.