Visit an exhibit of uniquely Swedish furniture Jan. 19-March 18 at the Swedish American Museum Center, 5211 N. Clark St. “The lines among different Scandinavian designs are often blurred,” says Carrie Hageman, co-chair of the exhibit committee. “This exhibit will show how unique Swedish furniture and design is and how it has progressed, answering the questions of how centuries-old traditions in woodcarving and sewing evolved into the sleek lines and ergonomic designs that typify Swedish furniture today.” There will be an opening from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, and a gallery walk at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 21.
The inspiration for this exhibit was the museum’s own collection, consisting of rarely displayed pieces that have been in storage for many years. While the collection serves as the backbone of the exhibit, several other items are on loan from Andrew Hollingsworth, Scandinavian Design, Svenska Mobler, IKEA, and private collectors.
“Several styles will be highlighted, contrasting furniture made in rural areas with those from urban areas, as well as showing the differences between hand-crafted and mass-manufactured items,” explains Hageman. “The role the Swedish government has played in promoting health and well-being through ergonomically-designed office furniture will also be discussed.”
Uniquely Swedish, showing in the First Floor Gallery of the Swedish American Museum from Jan. 19 through March 18, also features furniture by specific designers, including Carl Malmsten and Bruno Mathsson, and accessories by Josef Frank, of Svenskt Tenn fame.
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