American interior designer Kelly Wearstler has introduced Side Hustle, a new platform for showcasing a wide range of artistic and design works. This initiative will feature various disciplines, from sculpture and jewelry to film and automotive design. It will present these works through regular exhibitions, both in physical gallery spaces and online.
The inaugural exhibition, titled Again, Differently, is scheduled to open on October 16. It will take place at Wearstler's Beverly Hills home, specifically in its pool house. This new venture aims to highlight the creative collaborations Wearstler has fostered throughout her career.
Key Takeaways
- Kelly Wearstler launched Side Hustle, a new collectible design gallery.
- Side Hustle will feature diverse artistic and design disciplines.
- Exhibitions will be presented both physically and online.
- The first show, Again, Differently, starts October 16 at Wearstler's Beverly Hills home.
- The platform aims to champion artists and designers Wearstler has collaborated with.
Side Hustle's Vision for Design
Side Hustle was founded to support artists and designers with whom Kelly Wearstler has collaborated over many years. These collaborations have helped bring her distinctive interior designs to life. The platform offers a space for creative ideas to develop beyond typical client or commission structures.
Wearstler emphasizes that Side Hustle is meant to present works that contribute to the ongoing evolution of design as a cultural practice. This approach allows for greater artistic freedom and experimentation.
"My studio practice has long integrated work from across such a wide range of creative disciplines," said Wearstler. "It is this exploration that led to the birth of Side Hustle – a space for ideas to unfold beyond the logic of client or commission, working to present works that contribute to the ongoing evolution of design as a cultural practice."
Quick Facts
- Side Hustle combines physical and online exhibitions.
- The platform seeks to foster design innovation and cultural relevance.
- It provides a venue for artists to explore concepts without commercial constraints.
The Inaugural Exhibition: Again, Differently
The first exhibition, Again, Differently, will showcase the work of 10 artists and designers. These creators come from various regions, including the USA, South America, the UK, and Europe. Their works incorporate diverse materials and artistic approaches.
For example, some pieces will feature delicate lacey garments, while others will incorporate architectural remnants. This variety highlights the broad scope of design and artistry that Side Hustle intends to promote.
Background on Kelly Wearstler
Kelly Wearstler is a prominent American interior designer with a career spanning 30 years. She is recognized for her eclectic and bold interior designs. Her portfolio includes projects for major hospitality groups, such as Proper Hotels.
Notable works include the Austin Proper Hotel and Residences. Recently, she also completed a luxury animal hospital in Ontario, Canada, showcasing her versatility across different design sectors.
Featured Artists and Their Works
The Again, Differently exhibition includes several notable participants. Among them are artist Sonia Gomes, known for her sculptural pieces, and installation designer Joana Schneider. Sculptor Leonor Antunes and artist Dozie Kanu are also part of the lineup.
Other participating artists and designers include Madeline Hollander, Karl Holmqvist, Sam Klemick, Nynke Koster, and Mariko Makino. The diverse backgrounds of these artists reflect Wearstler's commitment to a wide range of creative expressions.
- Sonia Gomes: Artist known for her textile-based sculptures.
- Joana Schneider: Installation designer creating immersive experiences.
- Leonor Antunes: Sculptor exploring historical modernist design.
- Dozie Kanu: Artist whose work spans sculpture, furniture, and film.
- Madeline Hollander: Artist and choreographer working with performance and installation.
- Karl Holmqvist: Artist known for his text-based works and performances.
- Sam Klemick: Designer focusing on functional art and furniture.
- Nynke Koster: Artist creating architectural impressions in rubber.
- Mariko Makino: Artist exploring themes of nature and human connection.
The exhibition serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of contemporary design and art. It brings together established and emerging talents under one curated platform.
Impact on the Design Community
The launch of Side Hustle by a designer of Kelly Wearstler's stature is significant for the collectible design market. It provides a new, high-profile venue for artists and designers to display their work, potentially reaching a broader audience of collectors and enthusiasts.
By offering both physical and online viewing options, Side Hustle ensures accessibility. This dual approach is crucial in today's global art and design landscape. It allows people from different locations to experience the curated selections.
The initiative also underscores a growing trend in the design world: the blurring of lines between art, design, and functional objects. Wearstler's curatorial vision aims to celebrate this interdisciplinary approach.
The event is expected to draw considerable attention from the design community, art collectors, and media outlets. It will likely spark discussions about the future of collectible design and the role of designers as curators.
Design Trends Highlighted
- Interdisciplinary collaborations across art and design.
- Emphasis on unique, collectible pieces over mass production.
- Integration of digital platforms for wider audience reach.
- Exploration of unconventional materials and forms.
The exhibition's location in Wearstler's private residence adds an exclusive and personal touch. This setting creates an intimate atmosphere for viewing the artworks, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
The long-term impact of Side Hustle could include inspiring other designers to create similar platforms. It might also encourage a more fluid exchange of ideas between different creative fields. This aligns with Wearstler's stated goal of contributing to design's ongoing cultural evolution.
The platform's focus on works developed "beyond the logic of client or commission" suggests a commitment to artistic integrity and experimental projects. This could empower artists to take more risks and push creative boundaries.
Overall, Side Hustle represents a new chapter in Kelly Wearstler's career. It solidifies her role not just as a designer but also as a champion of diverse artistic talent and a thought leader in contemporary design.




