Mood Board: Alexander Girard's Colors

In 1952, Charles Eames recruited midcentury designer Alexander Girard to direct the textiles division at Herman Miller. Girard was one of the first modernists to emphasize the form – rather than function – of textiles through a playful application of color and pattern. Inspired by international folk art, his approach was rather whimsical, his palette primary and pure.

We're inspired by Girard's unapologetic embracing of vivid color and fun — a reminder that playfulness and beauty can coexist.

Above, a retrospective of Girard's popular work, including his ongoing contributions to Herman Miller throughout the 50's and 60's, as well as independent commissions like the signature sun-motif inspired designs for La Fonda del Sol restaurant in New York City (1960); materials for a zestful rebrand of Braniff Airlines (1965), a project that consisted of 17,543 modifications; and interior design for architect J. Irwin Miller.  

Catch Girard's work next year at the International Folk Art Museum in Santa Fe, New Mexico, May through October 2019.