Aria Journal:
One of the most influential figures in the history of design, Ettore Sottsass' vast portfolio of work, spanned over half a century, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations. Explore our curated edit of playful kitchenware and statement furniture by the master of Memphis.
The New Radicals
In 1981 a group of friends gathered in Sottsass’ Milan apartment, the new generation of designers, writers, and artists set out to turn the austerity of Modernism on its head with expressive silhouettes and radical colour schemes. A style that would later become known as Memphis.
As a reaction to the banality of utilitarian objects, the group exhibited 55 designs as part of a collaborative show later that year in Milan’s Design Gallery. The ground-breaking exhibition, entitled “Memphis”, showcased furniture, lighting and ceramics by the collective of designers, shaking up the world of Italian Industrial design.
Life in Multicolour
In celebration of 100 years of the dream factory, Alessi have relaunched a capsule range of kitchenware from the archives, designed by Sottsass in 1989. This LTD edition collection of sculptural corkscrews, pepper mills and grinders reimagine the practical kitchen utensil in technicolour.
Pilastro Stool for Kartell
Unearthed from the archives of previously unrealised designs by Ettore Sottsass, Kartell relaunched the Pilastro Stool as part of the “Kartell goes Sottsass - A Tribute to Memphis” collection in 2015. An homage to the Memphis Milano design movement and its legendary founder.
Cocktail Hour
Discover the art of cocktail making with the Lunar Eclipse Cocktail Set, designed by Ettore Sottsass for Alessi. The result of extensive research in mixology, the two-part cocktail shaker is an essential for any at-home bar. Shop barware by Sottsass.
By Jennifer Ring