The Memphis Group for me, as a designer, is something it's impossible not to have an opinion about. It's certainly had an effect on design. From Philippe Starck to Karl Lagerfeld. My feelings change year to year from my first discovery in my art school library to now writing about the group.
We all have our opinions; do we love or loathe?
Founded by the Milanese designer and architect Ettore Sottsass, it incited designers of everyday objects - from office chairs to buildings via wallpaper and vases - to break away from clean-cut mainstream modern European design.The Memphis group drew inspiration from such movements as Art Deco And Pop Art including styles such as the 1950s 'Kitsch' and futuristic themes. The group produced and exhibited furniture and design objects, annually from 1981 until 1988. The result was a highly-acclaimed debut at the 1981 Salone del Mobile of Milan, the world's most prestigious furniture fair, where it was reported that it stole the show.
Why?
Taking risks, pushing boundaries, challenging the cultural market at the time.... I think they did it right.
"Suvretta" by Sottsass 1981
Taylors' "Airport" Cabinet 1982
Sottsass' "Quisisana" ceiling light 1981
Read and see more at their own site Memphis Icons of Desire.
