George Nelson Retrospective in Oklahoma

George Nelson ca.1965, photo: okcmoa.com

The Oklahamo Museum of Art with Vitra Design Museum is featuring "George Nelson: Architect, Writer, Designer, Teacher" February 3rd - May 8th. The first complete retrospective of Nelson's work will include over 120 objects including chairs, clocks, lamps, benches, etc., and also over 50 documents that include drawings, photos, and films.

photo: www.modernica.net

Nelson was one of the most prominent American designers of the 20th century in various areas spanning architecture,  industrial design, and photography. He was also an influential lecturer, curator, writer and publicist. For over two decades Nelson was the design director for Herman Miller, allowing him the opportunity to work closely with other canons of mid century modern design such as Charles and Ray Eames, Alexander Girard, and Isamu Noguchi.

Nelson Bench by George Nelson for Herman Miller

Marshmallow Sofa by George Nelson for Herman Miller

Swag Leg Desk by George Nelson for Herman Miller

Coconut Chair and Ottoman by George Nelson - photo: Photo: Vitra Design Museum Archive

Herman Miller just recently re-introduced the  Nelson Basic Cabinetry series - an excellent collection of cabinet coordinates that can be put together to create a built-in look or used individually as nightstands or side tables. The introduction included Nelson's bench with a new metal base option. View these products on our website here.

Nelson Bench with Bookcase Cabinet for Herman Miller

As if you need another excuse to visit Oklahoma... but in case you did, this retrospective show is it.  There may be opportunities to see George Nelson's original product designs in retail stores (although, even these are few and far between), but this is a rare chance to get a glimpse of the artist's personal world and thoughts through his drawings and writings and connect it all together in one space.

Read more on this exhibition on the Oklahoma City Museum of Art's website here. View and purchase George Nelson products on our website here.