LA COVA, an art piece created by Gianni Ruffi in 1973 and now meticulously produced by Gufram, transforms the surreal concept of a human-sized nest into an inviting haven of relaxation. This masterpiece, where the lines blur between seating, nest, and something altogether more, offers a refuge for the weary, embodying the physical and mental manifestations of ultimate tranquility.
Its organic form is defined by intentional eccentricity: a hollow body hand-hewn from a block of light polyurethane is upholstered with cloth – a lightweight yet sturdy structure hosting thousands of hand-sewn felted fabric offcuts, spiraling out to construct the texture of a nest. The colors of the fabric, scattered in a seemingly random yet deliberate pattern, create varying hues from piece to piece due to the completely original assemblage, making each LA COVA entirely unique. These fabric pieces, repurposed from a range of original intentions, create a piece that tells a story.
The iconic LA COVA resonates with Gianni Ruffi’s broad universal thinking, harmoniously aligning with Gufram’s radical approach to contemporary design. On exhibit in prestigious global museums, it graces the permanent collection of the Deste Foundation and Musée des Beaux Arts in Montreal. A thought-provoking sculpture or furniture piece, or something altogether more, LA COVA is classically Gufram.
