Marimekko, with Love was an exhibition held at the Textile Museum of Canada in Toronto earlier this year (Jan 21, 2013 - May 12, 2013) but I wanted to share this as I have always loved their bold and colourful prints. With colours and prints as fun as these, I think it's guaranteed to put a smile on your face!
If you are not familiar with Marimekko, this Finish company based in Helsinky was founded in 1951 by visionary designer Armi Ratia and her husband Viljo. Marimekko emerged after the post-WWII with their distinct design philosophy - power of design in everyday life. They initially started off as a fabric design company and it wasn't until they designed simple dresses using their fabrics that the brand really took off. The brand rose to fame in 1960 when Jacqueline Kennedy purchased seven dresses after posing on the font cover of Sports Illustrated magazine in a sleeveless red dress!
The exhibition showcases the rare collection of Karelia, a Canadian design studio which introduced Marimekko and contemporary Finnish design to North America and Internationally. It offers a rare glimpse into the old footage of the Marimekko design and printing process, fabric selection to the posters and letters between Karelia and Armi.
Check out the Textile Museum of Canada for their exciting line up of upcoming exhibitions.
http://www.textilemuseum.ca/
