‘Mid-Century Modern: Australian Furniture Design’ is the first major exhibition dedicated to Australian furniture of the 1940s to the 1970s; a period of dynamic social change as Australians embraced modern ideals to encapsulate a new, cosmopolitan mode of living characterised by innovative and flexible furniture design.
From Grant Featherston’s plywood Contour range and Clement Meadmore’s welded steel corded chairs, so distinctive of the 1950s, to Gordon Andrews’ elegant 1960s designs for home and office, mid-century furniture design turned its back on the overstuffed and ornate examples of previous decades and, in doing so, revolutionised the contemporary Australian interior.
The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
Until 19 October, 2014
Melbourne
Douglas Snelling (designer), Functional Products Pty Ltd, Sydney (manufacturer), 1947-86, Snelling Line armchair, 1946, Australian hardwood, cotton, metal, 76.5 x 62.4 x 74.5cm
Courtesy National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
