“For this board, I drew inspiration from “Play to Win” by Heaven 17, a Sheffield-based group whose track I first encountered at one of David Mancuso’s Loft parties. The idea that music from an industrial city in northern England could resonate in New York’s disco clubs highlights a powerful cultural synergy—a meeting of working-class roots with the new wave and new romantic sounds that captivated downtown Manhattan.To honor Sheffield’s industrial heritage, I included a small factory in the painting. At the same time, I aimed to play with the serious nature of chess, reminding myself that it is ultimately a game of competition. By channelling the excitement and cross-cultural influences I felt upon hearing this record for the first time, I brought those same dynamic energies to the design of this chess set.” Sickboy The chess board - hand painted on European Birchwood ply, measures 55x55x1cm and has a stunning gloss lacquer finish, showcasing the depth of detail within the design. The hand-carved and machine turned Boxwood chess pieces are hand-painted and lacquered and measure between 5cm and 10cm high and finished with an Italian Nappa leather base felt, featuring the Purling logo embossed in 18 carat gold. Signed by the artist, certified for authenticity, and presented in Purling-branded luxury packaging.
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