matali crasset sitting in her 'volte face' chair
portrait © designboom

'volte face', a series of masks by matali crasset is part of her research on functionality.
here crasset shows figuratively and literally that when you 'drop the mask', one's true
self appears. conceptually, 'volte-face' presents the coexistence of two identities
for the same object; by turning it around (in french, 'faire volte face'), you switch from
one state to the other and, in this case, also from one function to another.

this duality represents two central and complementary aspects of the designed masks.
first, the symbolic aspect which is showcased by its convex shape. its form when facing
outward represents an invitation to the supernatural, helping to reveal what may be hidden.
the second is the domestic aspect which is represented by the concave side of crasset's
pieces. here the shape becomes suitable for everyday use. physical rather than metaphysical,
it is now a container that may hold anything. it can be used as an offerings cup or an object
for 'face to face' exchanges. the shape of the object is determined by the use that is given to it.


'volte face' chair translates the same conceptual themes of the mask projected on to a seating unit with a similar concave/ concave forms.
image © designboom

'volte face' is being presented as part of milan design week 2010
at galleria luisa delle piane.


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image © designboom


'volte face' masks produced in different variations
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'volte face 3' as a container
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'volte face 3' detail
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'volte face 1' detail
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'volte face 1' detail
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'volte face 2' detail
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'volte face 4' detail
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'volte face 4' detail
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'volte face 4' detail
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poster design of graphically represented masks showcased at 'volte face' exhibition


detail


poster design showcasing the different application of 'volte face' masks as form of concealing identity.






image © designboom


image © designboom


matali crasset
portrait © designboom