Benoît Maire's 'The Neko Collection' at Valerie Goodman Gallery explores Japanese craft and feline spatial awareness

Benoît Maire's debut exhibition at Valerie Goodman Gallery opens with a reception on April 16 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., presenting hand-fabricated furniture and sculptural works that invite active engagement. The show, titled 'The Neko Collection,' runs through June 19 and is inspired by the artist's encounter with Japanese aesthetics and cat culture. A formative visit to Kyoto potter Kanjiro Kawai's studio revealed how cats move intuitively through space, climbing and resting with quiet intelligence. This observation catalyzed Maire's approach to treating furniture as something to be interacted with rather than passively used. The exhibition features five pieces that reflect this philosophy, blending craft traditions with contemporary design. Public access begins on April 17, following the opening reception.