It’s a Nordic invasion of art and design. Representing hallmarks of quality, Minimalism functionality and simplicity, that integrate the admirable and highly valued democratic ideals of Nordic countries, “Nordic Models + Common Ground: Art and Design Unfolded” an exhibition presented by The American Scandinavian Foundation’s (ASF) in collaboration with Norsk Form – The Foundation for Design and Architecture in Norway, showcases new works by 35 established and emerging artists. Great designs are displayed offering a contemporary look at Nordic design most of which is informed by the region’s unique physical and geography phenomena that extend beyond its boundaries for a global impact.
With a long tradition of superb craftsmanship, adherence to quality of life and social responsibility and where sustainability is realized in the choice of materials, the following works from “Nordic Models” created since 2000 along with selections from VandM.com starting with Alvar Aalto’s 1930s Art Deco style exemplify some of the best in design that formed the core of the modern movement post WWII.
Curated by the prestigious international awarding-winning firm, Snøhetta, “Nordic Models” installation was designed by Brooklyn’s Situ Studio with an eye toward environmental sensitivity. Through March 9, 2011. Information on the exhibition and special two-day symposium – “Nordic Design Now” to be held on Wednesday, November 10 at Cooper Hewitt and Thursday, November 11 at Scandinavian House are @ http://www.scandinaviahouse.org/
Weighing in at an astonishing 1-2 lbs., the Spun Chair’s lightness is produced by a fiber tow-on-line impregnated with resin and passed between two rotating discs as it is moved by a 6-axis robot arm. Together the discs spin approximately 50 meters of carbon fiber on the diagonal as the chair travels through the cycles and back again. The chair is cured in an oven to toughen the fibers.
“Uggi” (fish finn in Icelandic) are made from codfishes that are skinned by hand. Once cleaned, the skins are dried and shaped to install the lights taking up to three weeks for a finished Uggi. Very surreal, but if you find yourself with a stopover at the Keflavik International Airport in Iceland, checkout the installation of 25 fish lamps.
Finland
The legendary Alvar Aalto crafted designs imbued in the cultural traditions of Scandinavia. This Art Deco Model #70 laminated birch table is an example of both Nordic Classicism and Modernism that appeals to devotees of both design traditions. Manufactured by the Scandinavian company, Finmar, founded in the 20s to market Aalto. Quintessentia through http://vandm.com/Quintessentia_GmbH or call 41-76-420-6848 in Switzerland.
A one-of-a kind, knockout piece of art jewelry hand-carved into organic shapes, artist Liv Blavarp’s inspiration comes from Norwegian traditions and the art of Africa. Perfectly wearable while at the same time a finely made sculptural object.
Thoroughly modern, yet rooted in tradition. The Finnish Rya has a classic abstract “kehra” pattern of circles and lines in a luscious palette of orange, browns, saffron, and pale blue, on creamy tan unfolding a cross a rich dense long piled surface. It preserves the Turkish tradition of “yataks” or bedding rugs that inspired such Scandinavian weavings centuries ago. Nazmiyal through http://vandm.com/NazmiyalCollection (212) 545-8029.
One of Danish designer Finn Juhl’s most well known chairs is the “Chieftain Chair.” This reproduction is a fine example of a Juhl design separating the sculpturally shaped seat and back from the wooden with an emphasis on the elegantly shaped armrests. Ohmio, based in Argentina, opened in 2000 selling modern influenced Scandinavian style furnishings made in Argentina from the 1940s -60s. Ohmio Gallery through http://vandm.com/Ohmio, (541) 147-7912.
Creating an interesting blend of texture and form, this “now” color green, hand-blown colored glass encased in clear glass by Swedish born Monica Guggesberg and partner Philip Baldwin is a mix the Scandinavian “hot” overlay with the Venetian “cold” techniques of battuto and inciso. Thurston Ross through vandm.com at http://vandm.com/ThurstonRoyce (610) 236-7300.
8 House (named to reflect the number eight configuration) completes a trilogy of residential housing designed to accommodate families in various stages of life. Influenced by a townhouse, but instead of using a block formation the assembly follows a layered orientation. For a maximized sense of community the architecture weaves the shared facilities throughout the whole building for a system of gardens, trees and pathways.
