Quanta Totem Chair, 2022
JOMO TARIKU
Quanta Totem Chair, 2022
Ebonized ash with carved and painted detail; 4 different backrests
33 x 26 x 31 in
Edition of 18
The Qwanta Totem Chair is the result of many years of experimentation, evolving from the traditional African birthing chair. This version is inspired by the Saurer lounge chair from the Gurage culture of Central Ethiopia and the removable backrest serve as totems that are found in many Sub-Saharan African regions. Typically made from durable, locally sourced wood, these chairs can be simple or decorated with culturally significant carvings. Tariku’s Qwanta Totem Chair is assembled from two pieces by sliding a backrest into a cantilevered base creating a stable structure without additional hardware. The chair comes with four interchangeable backrests that can be displayed as wall art when not inserted into the chair.
Tariku’s Qwanta Totem Chair is in the permanent collection of the Carnegie Museum of Art.
“I aim to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for elevated modern African design, and to inspire a deeper and fuller connection to the continent. I weave the continent’s nature, art, and history within each piece I produce. Every design tells a unique story, with no detail overlooked or undervalued.” —Jomo Tariku
