Sofa 1936

This ink drawing, called Sofa, was made by Nicholas Gorid sometime in the 20th century, and what I love about it is how it shows the inner workings of design itself. Here, the thin, precise lines map out every curve and flourish of this elaborate piece of furniture. You can almost feel Gorid's hand moving across the paper, carefully tracing the ornate details. The drawing feels less like a representation and more like a blueprint for a daydream. See how the different elements – the side view, the ornamentation – are laid out? It’s like Gorid is letting us in on his process, showing us how a concept takes shape on paper. It reminds me a little of Piranesi's architectural fantasies. It’s as if Gorid is not just designing a sofa but also inviting us to imagine new possibilities for living. After all, isn't art also an invitation?