Arne Jacobsen Overview

Without Arne Jacobsen, Danish design would be a small star on the design map rather than a prominent constellation and influential movement across the galaxy of art. With philosophical leanings parallel to those of the Arts & Crafts movement and Bauhaus,... [more]

Without Arne Jacobsen, Danish design would be a small star on the design map rather than a prominent constellation and influential movement across the galaxy of art. With philosophical leanings parallel to those of the Arts & Crafts movement and Bauhaus, and with full faith in the concept of "total design," Jacobsen strove to create a complete environment that excluded no details. After training as a mason, Jacobsen studied architecture at the Royal Danish Academy in Copenhagen. His tradesman background afforded him a keen appreciation for the quality and appropriate use of materials. At the time, Danish architects were taught that the whole of the building -- including the interior -- should be regarded as a work of art, and were trained accordingly in all the design arts. After leaving the academy, Jacobsen was showered with design accolades from around the world, receiving his first award just one year after graduation. Jacobsen's portfolio covers an extensive range of designs, including hospitals, schools, hotels, office buildings, and city halls. He also moved into product design, creating ashtrays, lamps, clocks, cutlery, and furniture. Even after his death in 1971, his 1952 "Ant" chair -- the straightforward yet elegant all-purpose chair that can be found everywhere from homes to hotels -- is still in production. [show less]