Kaj Franck, Iittala Tupa 1948; photo by Rauno Träskelin
An exhibition celebrating the centenary of the birth and surveying the work of the renowned Finnish designer Kaj Franck is currently on view at the Designmuseo in Helsinki (15 June – 25 September). Spanning over four decades (from the 1940s to the 1980s) of Franck’s career as an artist, an industrial designer as well as a teacher of design, Kaj Franck – Universal Forms showcases an extensive body of work encompassing glass, ceramics, textiles, furniture and plastic and metal objects, including Iittala‘s famous and commercially successful ’Teema‘ tableware line.
Kaj Franck - Universal Forms at Designmuseo, Helsinki; exhibition view; photo Rauno Träskelin
More about the exhibition:
‘Kaj Franck – Universal Forms provides a kaleidoscopic view of the oeuvre of this beloved Finnish designer and the starting points of his work in design. Its themes include Kaj Franck’s relationship with the old industrial heritage, vernacular artefact culture and Japanese culture. The objects on display illustrate the designer’s techniques, his choices of materials and principles of design, while revealing the course of the design process from sketches to finished products. Kaj Franck’s strong aesthetic views, his open-minded design thinking and rational practical approach are demonstrated by both mass-produced and unique objects on display.’
Kaj Franck, Arabia Hors d´oeuvre plate KF2, 1957 faience; photo Rauno Träskelin
Kaj Franck, Arabia Kilta (1948) 1951-52; photo Rauno Träskelin
Kaj Franck, Wärtsilä-yhtymä Kone ja Silta 46 bowl, 1959; photo Rauno Träskelin
‘This exhibition explores Franck’s various roles, as an artist, an industrial designer, an influential figure of the design community, a teacher of design and in private life. It also reflects less-known aspects ofFranck’s work, such as the design of textiles and gardens. Photographs and correspondence represent private aspects, along with letters from Franck’s travels and drawings for the children of friends. The exhibition programme also features workshops and lectures for children and other visitors, introducing Kaj Franck’s work to the younger generation.’
Kaj Franck's basic course of general design in 1977
Kaj Franck - Universal Forms exhibition at Designmuseo, Helsinki
to Architonic’s ‘Kaj Franck – Universal forms exhibition’ photo gallery
