The Faculty of Architecture, Design, and Urban Studies at UC inaugurates a space dedicated to the prolific career of Cristián Valdés. The architect and designer stands out for a six-decade trajectory that combines modernity with traditional methods. Dean Magdalena Vicuña defines the author as a "craftsman architect" who maintains a strict commitment to the honesty of materials.
The exhibition allows visitors to explore a unique sensitivity that connects human creativity with technical rigor. The A Chair and the Structure of National Design Furniture occupies a central place in this exhibition through iconic pieces that have traveled the world. The famous A Chair, created in 1977 after observing the technology of laminated tennis rackets, stands out.
Valdés emphasizes that in his designs, the aesthetic component never surpasses function. Regarding this piece, the architect states that "the entire chair is working structurally; there is no part that is merely decorative. " This approach earned him recognition from Architectural Digest and presence in international museums.
The exhibition "Vital Work" invites attendees to discover the fundamental principles that guide the professional's work. Through the careful curation of Sandra Iturriaga, the processes behind emblematic projects are revealed. With free admission for the entire community, it is an opportunity to understand how Valdés transformed Chilean architecture and furniture with an innovative vision.
Coordinates • Exhibition "Vital Work," by Cristián Valdés. Available until April 30, 2026. Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM. Lo Contador Gallery, El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago. Free admission.