Maggie Taft, The Chieftain and the Chair | SVA MFA Design Criticism, Second Floor

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Join author and art historian Maggie Taft as she delves into the fascinating story behind her book, "The Chieftain and the Chair." This captivating work explores the rise of Danish Modern design, a movement that has come to represent a timeless blend of elegance and modernity. Taft takes readers on a journey through the 1950s and '60s, a period when Danish Modern furniture became the go-to choice for Americans seeking a contemporary and sophisticated aesthetic. In "The Chieftain and the Chair," Taft focuses on the biographies of two iconic chairs: Finn Juhl's Chieftain Chair and Hans Wegner's Round Chair, both created in 1949. From their conception and fabrication to their marketing, distribution, and use, Taft meticulously traces the trajectory of these chairs, shedding light on the larger cultural, economic, and political forces that shaped the Danish design industry. Drawing upon her extensive research in Danish archives, Taft uncovers intriguing insights into the deliberate strategies employed by Danish creatives and manufacturers to cater to the American market. This thought-provoking talk will feature some of Taft's primary discoveries and explore the book's premise as a biography of objects. The event will be held at SVA MFA Design Criticism in New York City, where doors will open at 6:00 PM and the speaker will begin at 6:30 PM. Following the talk, there will be a reception where attendees can interact with featured speakers and engage with fellow design enthusiasts. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of how Danish Modern design became synonymous with stylish modern comfort and discover the intricate stories behind two iconic chairs. Admission to this event is free, so mark your calendars for October 18, 2023, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of "The Chieftain and the Chair."