Alchemy: The Art of Philip and Kelvin Laverne

- First monograph on well-regarded deisgners and artists Philip and Kelvin LaVerne

The works of Philip and Kelvin LaVerne are already prized among collectors of American 20th-century furniture and art. However, Alchemy: The Art of Philip and Kelvin LaVerne written by gallerist Evan Lobel, reveals for the first time the astonishing breadth and depth of their artistic practice, which ranges from avant-garde furniture to sculpture and painting. As a father and son artist team, the LaVernes’ collaboration resulted in hundreds of unique and complex works, incorporating historical references of past civilizations and art historical motifs, with modernist design principles. Alchemy: The Art of Philip and Kelvin LaVerne is a comprehensive testament to the importance of these artist-designers who brought history, craftsmanship, and innovation into conversation with functional design and art. In writing the book with Kelvin LaVerne, Lobel provides unparalleled insight into the method and history of the duo and introduces a bounty of beautiful and never-before-seen images and commentary. This is, and will continue to be, the authoritative account of Philip and Kelvin LaVerne’s esteemed place in the history of 20th-century art and design.

Evan Lobel was born in 1964 and grew up on Long Island and in New York City. He went to Cornell University and received a Bachelor of Arts in international economics in 1986. After graduating, he spent 11 years working in finance. Wanting to pursue a career in art and design, he opened Lobel Modern in 1998. He has spent over 10 years collaborating with Kelvin LaVerne on this book.