I decided to showcase another artist that I’ve recently been getting into, an American-born, Italian-raised textile designer by the name of Alexander Girard, 1907 – 1993.

Girard worked with Herman Miller, George Nelson and Charles and Ray Eames, and is best known for designing the La Fonda del Sol Restaurant in New York (1960) and the interiors, textiles and ephemera for Braniff Airlines (1965). With a penchant for folk art and a strong eye for colour, his work is still freshly contemporary despite having a distinctly quasi-psychedelic vibe. His palette, whilst seemingly full of clashing colours, has such a strength of character to it that it seems natural and right.

I love the simplicity and boldness of his graphic style and the sense of playfulness it imbues. Designers seemed to have so much more fun with their work in those halcyon days when experimentation was encouraged over mere productivity.

He’s definitely one to check out if you like a strong line and an adventurous palette!

More information about Girard at The Museum of International Folk Art

Girard’s work at Braniff Airlines

Interviews about Girard’s body of work

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