Jens Risom was a Danish-American furniture designer and artist who made significant contributions to the world of mid-century modern design. He was born in Copenhagen in 1916 and began his career as a joiner before studying at the School of Furniture in Copenhagen. In 1939, Risom immigrated to the United States, where he worked with furniture designer Hans Knoll until 1941. During World War II, he directed the Design Board for the U.S. government and was involved in the war effort in Europe. After the war, he continued to design furniture for Knoll and won numerous awards for his work. Risom's furniture designs were characterized by their simplicity, functionality, and use of natural materials such as wood and woven materials. His work was often inspired by Scandinavian design principles, which emphasized clean lines, minimalism, and functionality. Risom's most famous designs include the Risom Lounge Chair, Risom Side Chair, and the Risom Rocker, which are still popular today and have become icons of mid-century modern design. In addition to his work as a furniture designer, Risom was also an accomplished artist. He worked in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and printmaking. His artwork often reflected his interest in nature and the natural world, and he was known for his use of bold colors and abstract forms. Overall, Jens Risom was a highly influential figure in the world of mid-century modern design, known for his innovative furniture designs and his contributions to the field of design as a whole. His legacy continues to inspire designers and artists today, and his work remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Jens Risom, furniture design, mid-century modern, simplicity, natural materials
Jens Risom (1916-2016) was an internationally acclaimed American designer and artist. He was born in Copenhagen, Denmark, and at the age of eleven, he began his apprenticeship as joiner, before attending the School of Furniture in Copenhagen. He immigrated to the United States in 1939 where he worked with furniture designer Hans Knoll until 1941. During World War II, Risom was commissioned by the U.S. government to direct the Design Board and was part of the war effort in Europe. After the war, he designed furniture for Knoll and won numerous awards. His furniture is recognized for its clean lines and use of natural materials. Some of his notable works include the Risom Lounge Chair, Risom Side Chair, and the Risom Rocker. His work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
Furniture designer, Mid-Century Modern Movement, Danish-American artist, Knoll Furniture, Risom Rocker, Risom Lounge Chair, Risom Side Chair.
— Mei Wang
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