How prophetic is On the Occasion of the Crumbling of Our Empire, this mirrored work created in 2017 by wunderkind Misha Kahn? The Duluth-born RISD alum seems to have anticipated our pandemic-induced need for a fantasy world of joy.

Visionary techno-designer John Maeda once said, “Misha creates for a parallel wonderland, where traditional perception of material and structure is pushed to the edges of a room to make space for one big party.” We’re down the rabbit hole, like Alice.

At once a thoughtful Vermeer-like oculus for our brave new world and a giggle-inducing funhouse mirror, this piece brings energy and maximalism to any space lucky enough to host it. The fusing of new and found materials feels so poignant now as we think about the post-COVID possibilities. I’m dreaming of greater diversity; designs that better mirror the beautiful, intricate fabric of our persevering society. ◆

You can find On the Occasion of the Crumbling of Our Empire by Misha Kahn for Friedman Benda, 2017 in the Design Miami/ Shop here.