When an event comes along that combines your love for the Nordic way of life, as well as a visit to one of your favourite art galleries, there’s no way you’re going to miss it.
‘Nordic Craft and Design’, Manchester Art Gallery’s new year-long exhibition showcases furniture, textiles, lighting, ceramics, glass, metalwork and jewellery from across the Nordic nations.
Themed around the principles of colour, line, shape, nature and water, the exhibition demonstrates the lasting impact Nordic designers and makers have made to global cultural history.
Covering the best of Nordic design, and those influenced by it, from the 1930s to the present day; the collection features important well known names such as Alvar Aalto, Arne Jacobson and Finn Juhl.
But what really stood out for me were a number of newer pieces. These included the exquisite ‘Letter’ crepe dress by Danish fashion designer Henrik Vibskov, Peter Jensen’s ‘Fanny’ printed plywood bag with its nod to the current ‘Japandi’ design trend, and the extraordinary ‘Ribbon Rocking Chair’ by leading British furniture designer Katie Walker.
All quintessentially Nordic, but proving just how influential and inspiring this unified and enduring style really is.
I also loved how recognisable everyday items, some of which I actually have at home, the Stelton EM Press Coffee Maker, Royal Copenhagen Fluted Contrast Mug and the Norman Copenhagen Norm 69 Lamp Shade where also exhibited alongside iconic pieces of furniture.
The gallery’s own collection is also complemented with national and international loans from institutions, private collectors, as well as some of my favourite Nordic brands, such as Marrimekko, Iittala, Georg Jensen and Louis Poulsen.
This exhibition shows that by focussing on form, functionality and quality craftsmanship, well designed everyday items can transcend generations to enhance the quality of our daily lives.
‘Nordic Craft and Design’ runs at Manchester Art Gallery from 6th July 2018 – 7th July 2019, during which the gallery will also be hosting a programme of events and activities.
For more information, click here.
All images by Nicola Capper.
Lovely works of art. I could imagine any of these items in my home.
Such a great collection, if you’re nearby please do go take a look!
those are really beautiful photos of a fantastic event i love the chest of drawers in the second shot xx
Thanks Pati, the Finn Juhl piece is a particular favourite of mine after visiting his house in 2015.
I’d like to see this exhibition but sadly Manchester is just a bit too far away! Glad you enjoyed it though!
So wish you lived nearer Stacey, it would have been fab to meet up x
What a fantastic event and some great shots. I’m always drawn to lighting and love these 😀 x
Thanks Maria, yes, the lighting was pretty special x
I have a thing for mid century chairs so it is great to see the all time classic egg chair included. Altogether a great collection of classic design items.
Totally agree Fiona, and the newer pieces where really exciting.
Oooh this looks right up my street – worth the train ride up north by the looks of things!
Well if you do let me know x
This looks like a great exhibition! Will have to pop in when I’m next in Manchester
You would love it Natalie, such an inspiring show x
I love a good craft exhibition and throw in some history of mid-century furniture and you’ve got me hooked! What a great looking show.
Thanks Mary, I think you would really enjoy this, if only we lived closer to each other!