Copyright © 2025 Motivate Media Group. All rights reserved.
Acquisition of Junya Ishigami’s creation marks 2nd year of Serpentine Galleries partnership.
To mark the second anniversary of its Therme Art Program global art initiative, Therme Group has acquired the 2019 Serpentine Pavilion designed by Japanese architect Junya Ishigami. Announced at the Serpentine Galleries’ Frieze breakfast, on the occasion of the opening of Frieze London, the news follows Therme Group’s acquisition of Mexican architect Frida Escobedo’s 2018 Serpentine Pavilion.
Ishigami’s design for the 2019 Serpentine Pavilion consists of a complex arrangement of slates, which form a single canopy that appears to emerge straight from the earth on which it stands. It also highlights the importance of reconsidering the role of architecture as not only as a physical entity, but also as a crucial arbiter of culture, connection, and spirituality.
Hans Ulrich Obrist, Artistic Director, Serpentine Galleries, said: “Junya Ishigami’s Serpentine Pavilion beautifully articulates the architect’s ‘free space’ philosophy in which he seeks harmony between man-made structures and those that already exist in nature. His gravity-defying ‘slate roof’ has welcomed thousands of visitors to the park this summer to enjoy both the space itself and the many live and experimental performances that are programmed especially for the space as part of our annual Cos x Serpentine Park Nights series. It is exciting to imagine its future life in a new environment.”
Key to the work of Therme Art Program is the commissioning of large-scale, long-term art projects for its famed thermal baths – challenging the limitations of conventional exhibition spaces and redefining contemporary art viewing. The inaugural commission – an immersive, site-specific artwork courtesy of acclaimed Icelandic artist Egill Sæbjörnsson – was announced in December 2017.
Over the last two years, Therme Art Program has become a key partner of the British Council and has formed an advisory board in order to collaborate with some of the most innovative and well-respected figures in contemporary art and design, including Sir David Adjaye, Frida Escobedo and Francis Kéré. To celebrate its second year in operation Therme Art Program hosted a special event for partners, supporters and staff at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, UK.
Aura Living’s AW24 collection showcases the elegance of contrast and harmony
Laufen prioritises design, functionality and sustainability in its latest collections
Discover the Legacy of a Saudi Art Space: Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall explores the Hall’s enduring influence on the cultural fabric of Saudi Arabia
Free-spirited and creative, The Home Hotel in Zurich injects a sense of whimsy into a former paper factory
Falaj Collection by Aljoud Lootah Design
identity selects warm-toned furniture pieces and objets that align with Pantone’s colour of the year
Stacy Stewart, Regional Director Middle East & Africa of MillerKnoll discusses the future and evolution of design in workspaces with identity.
Gensler’s Design Forecast Report 2025 identifies the top global design trends that will impact the real estate and built environment this year
Kamdar Developments has launched 105 Residences, a new high-end development in Jumeirah Village Circle.
Located in the heart of Jumeirah Garden City, formerly known as ‘New Satwa’, The Muse adds to the urban fabric of the area
The Chedi Hegra opens its doors in AlUla’s UNESCO World Heritage Site
Sunshine Bay on Al Marjan island combines seaside views, exceptional design, and world-class amenities to create a unique waterfront haven