Research/Writing:

My final studio project is inspired by the “Revolving Armchair” by designer Charlotte Perriand. My main thesis is to discuss the designer herself and how the work is inspired by the modernist movement. I also plan to write about how many of Perriand’s male counterparts were credited for much of her work, and how women in the modern design of the 1920s were influential in evolving this design era. My current thesis statement reads:

“The materiality of Charlotte Perriand’s 1928 Revolving Armchair demonstrates the modernist movement and the influence of progressive ideas and people during this era. Perriand was one of the most influential for this design period, often going unrecognized and credit going to her many male counterparts.”

This subject is taking me to many articles that have made me realize how many people actually influential in the very movement that they have no credit for. Big names like Le Corbusier are always noted, which does not seem just to me. I want to explore the modernist movement’s history and how it was influenced by women.

Moodboard:

Final Sketch Idea:

I am going to create a table lamp, approximately 8in wide and 12in tall. I plan on using air-dry clay and a reclaimed lamp base. The shape of the lamp will be inspired by the modernist movement and the female form. Juxtaposing what was traditionally considered a more “masculine” design movement, with the lines of a feminine presenting body.

Material Investigation:

I will use a lightweight airdry clay with fixed interior armatures to create the form of the lamp. Depending on the final texture I desire, I will use either thicker paint or acrylic to color the lamp. I have used air dry clay in the past so I plan on using the sculpting techniques I already know about to create this piece.

Overall idea:

I am going to make a lamp inspired by modernism and the female form. I will achieve this work through trial and error and spending time focusing on the form, texture, and color of my piece. My work relates to the design era and designer of the work titled “Revolving Armchair” by Charlotte Perriand. It also relates to me personally and historically, focusing on creating an object that highlights women in design, which is personal to me and my family, as well as historical female figures in design.