MADE IN SWEDEN – SWEDISH DESIGN IN THE XX CENTURY

Active development of Swedish design starts at the end of the XIX century – the period of industrialization and growth of cities. In Sweden much attention was paid to homes as being the main component in improving the wellbeing of the community. Writer and philosopher Ellen Kay formulated the theory according to which social improvements happen through the creation of beauty in the material everyday life – "ethics through aesthetics". Kay argued that beauty achieved through very simple means - by painting walls or practical furniture placement - can be a significant contribution to improving the quality of life. Thus the foundations of modern Swedish design, renowned for its focus on solving social problems, were laid. Sarah Kristofferssen will tell about the history of Swedish design, its features, and the way it effects on modern society.