Tuesday 3 May 2011

The Nordic Museum, Stockholm, Sweden

Tord Boontje
                     Midsummer light, tyvek


Tord Boontje is a well-known Dutch designer who used laser cutting to create tyvek (a non woven, versatile fabric) forms, inspired by nature.  'Midsummer light' is probably one of his most recognisable pieces.  His work is also available to the masses, as he creates work for famous stores such as Habitat. 

Swedish Design

                    Himmeli


Himmeli's are a Scandinavian form of decoration, traditionally used at Christmas.  I first came across these amazing forms in Finland.  They are made of straw and string, but these one also features other various decorations, including pom poms, to make it more excessive.



Dala Horses are a traditional Swedish handicraft and popular souvenir.  This makes it popular amongst Swedish designs as a creative subject.  This fabric roll, depicting various Dala personalities is just one example of many ways in which the motif has been used. 


Geometric shapes and bright colours are another dominant feature in Swedish fabric design.  They create a striking contrast to the very plain, functional furniture design.