Bench 153A Wild Birch will become permanent in Artek's catalog from autumn 2024, but we are already selling the special edition of the bench that was previewed in Formafantasma's trade fair stand at Stockholm Furniture Fair. The special edition of Bench 153A Wild Birch is available in 6 numbered copies, all of which are signed by Formafantasma. Please note that the benches were used in the exhibition at the fair, and should therefore be seen as in used condition. Unfortunately, it is not possible to request a bench with a specific number.

Bench 153A in Wild Birch is the result of a collaboration between Finnish Artek and the research-based design studio Formafantasma. The iconic piece of furniture, designed by Alvar Aalto in 1945, has been given a new expression through the choice of Wild Birch material, where the wood's natural deviations such as color changes, insect trails, knots and marks are allowed to take place. Since 2020, Artek and Formafantasma have together illuminated Artek's supply chain. The collaboration resulted in a new approach to the selection process of wood for production, where more of the raw material is used, thus reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The broader and "wilder" view of what can be used in furniture production has also set a new standard for what is aesthetically pleasing, and each product has its own unique expression.

Formafantasma, founded by Andrea Trimarchi and Simone Farresin, is a research-based design studio that investigates the ecological, historical, political and social forces that shape contemporary design. Their goal is to deepen the knowledge of both our natural and constructed environment, and to use their observations to call for transformative interventions through design. Formafantasma is the 2024 Guest of Honour at the Stockholm Furniture Fair.