Michael Beitz’ Lies Bench plays with the idea of lies as something we rest upon

Michael Beitz’s Lies Bench plays with the idea of lies as something we rest upon. Made from dark maple and upholstered in soft salmon-colored chenille, the benches connect to spell “Lies” in loose, cursive lettering. Their simple, elegant design makes them feel comfortable and familiar, like furniture meant to be used. From above, the word becomes fully clear, and the piece takes on an uneasy presence, as if comfort itself has been quietly hijacked.

Beitz’s practice combines drawing, sculpture, and functional design to investigate themes of connection, anxiety, and dependence. By reworking recognizable objects and spaces—particularly those associated with comfort—his work explores how everyday environments influence behavior and relationships. Familiar forms become vessels for examining emotional and psychological conditions embedded in daily life.

The conflicting emotions that Lies Bench evokes make it one of my favorite artworks. You can see Beitz’s website here and his Instagram here.

See also: Artist’s ear sculpture on NYC wall turns heads and opens eyes