In a world that often demands conformity, a new piece of furniture challenges the norm while offering a wink to the bisexual community. The “Bi-Chair,” a creation spurred by the viral sketch of Brazilian artist Má Matiazi, has become a tangible symbol of nonconformity and inclusivity. This chair, designed for those who eschew the traditional way of sitting “straight,” has captured the LGBTQ+ community’s imagination and heart.
Israel Walker, inspired by his nonbinary bisexual child, transformed Matiazi’s conceptual art into a functional piece of furniture. The chair’s design, with its unconventional structure, caters to the unique sitting positions commonly joked about within the bisexual community—positions that defy the straight-laced norm.
Crafting Comfort and Community
Walker’s adaptation of Matiazi’s design includes shorter arms and a distinctive cutout section with a footrest, catering to the comfort of those who find traditional seating restrictive. The chair’s reception on social media, especially within LGBTQ+ circles, underscores a shared, yet often unspoken, experience. It resonates with individuals like Sarah Lawson*, who, upon seeing the chair, felt it articulated a part of her identity she had only recently embraced.
Beyond a Mere Sitting Solution
The chair’s significance extends beyond its physical comfort. It stands as a testament to the power of inclusive design and the importance of acknowledging and valuing the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. Matiazi and Walker’s collaborative spirit, coupled with the overwhelming positive response from the community, highlights a broader desire for visibility and representation in all aspects of life, including the seemingly mundane act of sitting.
As the “Bi-Chair” moves from a viral sensation to a potentially more widely available product, it reminds us of the importance of spaces and products that reflect and embrace the full spectrum of human diversity. It’s not just about creating a chair but about making room for all identities within our shared spaces.
*Name has been anonymized for privacy.