Though grouped as "Nordic" countries, the four countries featured in the exhibition, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland significantly differ from each other in climates, industries and lifestyles. What these four countries have in common is the "design" rooted in tradition of superior craftsmanship. Design in Nordic countries constitutes the ground for the industrial development, and proudly remain at a high level in the international standard.
The exhibition mainly comprises of the world's favorite design products and craft works from the Golden Age of Nordic Modernism, from 1950s to 1960s. The selected works here present various styles of Nordic Design: observation of the tradition, quest for functionality, use of bright colors and celebratory aesthetics. Despite the variety of appearance, these design styles share people's aspiration for "warmth" in such hard climate at the root. And this desire was brought into reality by the sophisticated craftsmanship, well-honed consciousness and excellent foresight.
Tapio WIRKKALA Plywood Sculpture "kotilo/ Mollusk" © Rauno Träskelin / Design Museum, Helsinki |
Ruben RAUSING Tetra Classic © Yoshio Hayashi |
Poul HENNINGSEN Pendant Lamp "PH Artichoke" © Lois Poulsen Lighting A/S |
Verner PANTON Chair "Panton Chair" © Masataka Nakano |