Design Miami/ 2014: Bentley unveils commission for new design initiative

The work, entitled Light, pays homage to Bentley’s values of dedication to craftsmanship, innovation and design, as well as to the physical attributes of production. Uberti was inspired by the neon-lit vehicle audit bays where cars are given their final inspection before delivery. The work features a trestle table and a chair housed within an exterior framework, made using neon tubing that was hand-blown in Miami.

‘It was actually to recreate this sense of an atelier where you create,’ said Uberti. ‘It’s a working table, not a business table. This is the place where you have the concept and the crafting of the project.’

The Italian artist spent time in Bentley’s factory in Crewe working alongside the brand’s team, and was impressed with how many elements of the car are still hand-crafted, which mirrored his own production process. ‘People who work with their hands understand each other so much, even if they come from different places,’ said Uberti. ‘Even though I don’t speak English, the people here had this common language of doing things, being delicate and being enthusiastic about the results of the process.’

The project is the first commission by Bentley Elements, the brainchild of creative directors Campbell-Rey. The installation will be on display until 4 December in a gallery space in the Miami Design District.

For more on Design Miami/ look out for coverage in our Seed and Shows sections.