My next task at Uni is to create a ‘zine’. If you’re not sure what that is then you are not alone and up until about 2 weeks ago I had no clue either. So now I’m a little more informed I can with authority say that essentially it’s a self published magazine with an edge; a controversial topic or minimal words or constructed by hand and so only a small amount are produced. They really are fabulous and the more I’ve researched the more my brain has been working overtime with ideas for my zine.
I decided to combine two loves, surface design and Scandinavian design as the focus of my zine. Our lecturer pointed out that we are more likely to produce something great if we are already passionate about the topic – well that’s just advice for life don’t you think? The plan is to include traditional motifs, with iconic designs, my own work and the work of others who have been influenced by Scandinavian design. I did a little happy dance when Heather Moore of Skinny laMinx sent me an answer to my question – ‘what is it about Scandinavian design that influences your work?’. You’ll have to wait until I’m done for the answer, which I have been happily working into a spread today.
So what does all this have to do with this post? I’m glad you asked. Also during my research I came across Cathrinholm enamelware. Created by Grete Prytz Kittelsen aka ‘The Queen of Scandinavian Design’. She was born in June 1917 and passed away in September 2010. The lotus design is probably her most iconic design and graced many a dinner table in the 60s and 70s and, not surprisingly, is highly sought after by collectors. I did read somewhere that she didn’t design the motif and never really liked it but I don’t know if that’s true. She also added goldsmith to her list of talents and I would love to see her jewellery.
In what has turned out to be a serendipitous week I then stumbled across the gorgeous posters by Jan Skácelík of Restyle Etsy Store. These posters are a true celebration of Scandinavian design and mid-century modern and he has even created one that includes my PH5 light and the on-my-wish-list egg chair, but I’ll save that for another time. So it’s back to my zine…
The images are:
Collection of Cathrineholm enamelware image via Ampersand Vintage Modern
Image of a young Grete Prytz Kittelsen via Tandem Antiques & Design
Kitchenart cathrineholm poster from Restyle Etsy Store
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