Austrian-born designer and architect Josef Frank (1885–1967) was a leading pioneer of Swedish Modern design, and many of Frank’s timeless textile designs and furnishings remain in production today. Unlike the severe approach to modernism taken by many of his contemporaries, Frank emphasized comfort and informality, producing fanciful designs inspired by nature. Frank’s lavish use of bright, bold colors and floral patterns quickly became popular with a host of Swedish designers and clientele. These patterns were popular both on furniture designs and textiles.
This exhibition was made possible through a generous loan from Svenskt Tenn, Stockholm, Sweden and by the generous support of the Barbro Osher Pro Suecia Foundation, George C. and Esther Ann McFarland Foundation, Auxiliary, Midsommarklubben, and an anonymous foundation. Support was also provided in part by the Philadelphia Cultural Fund.
Portions of this exhibition are on display in the Josef Frank Gallery.
