(originally appeared in Saab Magazine)
<<< Prevoius page Page 3 of 5
Another designer whose work exemplifies the new direction in Scandinavian design is the Swedish ceramicist, Lovisa Wattmann. Her Kollektion serving wares for Höganäs Keramik have deeply satisfying forms that beautifully synthesize function and aesthetics. The visually seductive organic lines of these products are carefully attuned to the contours of the hand so that they can be comfortably lifted and cradled – indeed her forms almost beg to be caressed.
Sharing a similar sense of “Swedish Grace”, Pia Törnell’s work ranges from functional mass-produced everyday objects to freer, less conventional, unique pieces that convey the joy of pure artistic expression. Both her recent Convito dining/serving range for Röstrand and her cast iron cookware for Hackman reflect the strong elemental quality of much contemporary Scandinavian design.
In order to appreciate the sheer quality of these products it is important to understand that in Scandinavia, designers and manufacturers frequently enjoy close and long-term working relationships. Companies often provide well-equipped studios manned by virtuoso craftsmen to assist designers in the development of experimental one-off objects as well as more utilitarian, mass-producible pieces.
These studios are crucial in providing designers with a hands-on understanding of materials, and an insight into how they will react under different conditions. This practical technical knowledge gives Scandinavian designers a significant edge over their more computer-reliant peers in other countries.
Page 3 of 5 Next page >>>
Buy the book Scandinavian Design |