Danish design icons inspired by Far Eastern culture The journey from Copenhagen to Japan spans more than 8,500 kilometers. A considerable distance, but in this creative world, distance is more of a source of inspiration than an obstacle. Let's delve into the exciting story of how some of Denmark's most iconic designers have been inspired by Japanese aesthetics and created timeless masterpieces. Hans J. Wegner, Poul Kjærholm, Jette Gemzøe, Jakob Jensen, Kaare Klint, Jeanne Philip, Hans Sandgren Jakobsen, Cecilie Manz, and Børge Mogensen - these names constitute an impressive collection of talents who have shaped Danish design history. According to art historian Mirjam Gelfer-Jørgensen, Danish design would be something completely different without the inspiring influence from Japan. "Japanese simplicity and practical art merged with traditional Danish functionalism. It is difficult to determine whether it is direct inspiration, as the Japanese style was passed on to the artists' students in Denmark. Today we see how it is united in a harmonious way," says Mirjam Gelfer-Jørgensen, author of the book "Japanism in Danish – Art and Design 1870-2010". The term Japanism refers to the wave of Japanese inspiration that swept through Western art and culture in the late 19th century. After more than 200 years of isolation, Japan opened its doors to the West in 1853, and this was the start of a fascinating exchange of creativity. Danish artisans were exposed to Japanese craftsmanship and design, which shaped a new era in Danish design. "At that time, artists were looking for something new. Some felt that there was too much mass production in the art industry and wanted to focus on fine craftsmanship," explains Gelfer-Jørgensen. Today, that spirit of craftsmanship and aesthetics is reborn, and we include not only hygge, but also the Japanese WABI SABI concept in many of our designs here at wolffnordic.com. Let's celebrate this creative bridge between Denmark and Japan, where the past meets the present, and design history continues to flourish. This text is inspired by and contains text from an article/review by Heidi Laura, Weekendavisen, 03.05.2013
