Exhibition to Showcase Mid-Century Modern Australian Furniture Design for the First Time

From May 30-October 19, 2014, the first exhibition of "Mid-Century Modern" Australian furniture design will be open to the public through “Mid-Century Modern: Australian Furniture Design.”

The event is presented by Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia which aims to recognize the dramatic changes that occurred within the realms of Australian furniture design and manufacturing.

NGV Director, Tony Ellwood said, “ ‘Mid Century Modern’ will explore the influence of modern design upon the changing landscape of Australian furniture in the decades following World War Two.”

The events that occurred in the mid-20th century proved to be dramatic to the country as Australians began to accept modern ideals in a more cosmopolitan lifestyle. This was reflected through their use of innovative and flexible furniture design, most of which were influenced by international trends at that time and at the same time dedicated by a more modern language.

Elwood said, “Furniture produced by local designers such as Featherston, Meadmore and Snelling is found in galleries and actively sought after by collectors across Australia today, showing its enduring influence and appeal.”

The exhibition will feature the 100 iconic pieces including the key works of Grant Featherston, Clement Meadmore, Gordon Andrews, Douglas Snelling, Fred Lowen and Schulin Krimper. Most of the furniture pieces will be placed within recreated interior vignettes, with one showing a full-scale reinterpretation of a 1955 Age Dream Home.

The pieces in the exhibit are curated by Kirsty Grant.

Aside from mid-century furniture designs, the exhibit will also serve as a venue for visual artist turned furniture designers such Robert Klippel and Janet Dawson to display their works. A series of public programs will also be held during the entire event.