Preserving Good Design: The Unique Legacy of Penland School of Craft

In a world dominated by mass production, there are still places that embrace the essence of creativity, handcraftsmanship, and the preservation of good design. One such haven is the Penland School of Craft, nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Founded in 1929, Penland has evolved into an internationally renowned institution that celebrates the intersection of art, craft, and design and plays a pivotal role in preserving the skills of good artistry for generations to come.

A Rich History of Craftsmanship:

At the core of Penland's uniqueness lies its rich history. Established by Lucy Morgan as a haven for Appalachian craft traditions, the school has been a sanctuary for artisans seeking to master and perpetuate their craft. Throughout its existence, Penland has embraced a wide range of disciplines, including ceramics, glassblowing, metalsmithing, woodworking, textile arts, printmaking, and more. This broad scope allows for cross-disciplinary inspiration and fosters a unique environment for the preservation of good design principles.

Immersive Learning Experience:

Penland's educational philosophy revolves around the concept of experiential learning. Unlike conventional academic institutions, Penland offers intensive workshops where students work alongside skilled instructors and experienced artists. This immersive learning experience encourages a deep understanding of the materials, techniques, and processes involved in creating art and furniture. By instilling a hands-on approach, Penland fosters a connection between the students, the art, and the designs they produce.

A Collaborative Community:

One of the key factors that make Penland stand out is its emphasis on fostering a collaborative and supportive community. The school welcomes artists, educators, and students from diverse backgrounds, creating an environment that encourages the exchange of ideas and perspectives. Through this collaborative spirit, the essence of good design transcends individual disciplines, resulting in a unique fusion of styles and approaches.

Sustainability and Environmental Consciousness:

Preserving good design goes beyond aesthetics; it encompasses a commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness. Penland takes pride in incorporating sustainable practices into its educational programs, promoting responsible use of materials, and embracing eco-friendly techniques. By integrating these principles into the curriculum, Penland ensures that future artists and designers not only create beautiful works but also contribute to a better, more sustainable world.

Preservation of Traditional Techniques:

As the world progresses, traditional craft techniques risk fading into oblivion. Penland, however, serves as a beacon for the preservation of these ancient methods. By providing a space for seasoned artisans to pass on their expertise to the younger generation, Penland plays a vital role in safeguarding traditional craft techniques and ensuring they remain relevant in contemporary design.

Nurturing Emerging Talent:

Penland isn't solely focused on preserving the past; it also places a significant emphasis on nurturing emerging talent. The school offers scholarships and financial aid to young artists, ensuring that creativity and skill aren't limited by economic barriers. By empowering aspiring artists, Penland ensures a continuous influx of fresh ideas and perspectives, further enriching the world of design. Evan Reid and Penland resident Ellie Richards have recently partnered to offer an exclusive line of accessories at their Raleigh showroom.

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The Mid-Century Magic of Burnt Orange in Furniture Design

Why is the color Burnt Orange so prominently featured in MCM design? What made this muted orange a favorite among some of the most influential artists of the era? This rich and earthy hue found its place in the hearts of designers and homeowners during the mid-century modern movement and continues as a prominent color in the spectrum of any Modern home. While today we’ve come to think of “modern” design in terms of stark grays and cold whites, the true Modern movement embraced bold colors as a way to contrast, and highlight, the futuristic lines of mid-century furniture. Burnt Orange represents the era more than any other color; more than the avocado greens and harvest yellows that dominated the movement. So we want to give this bold color it’s due with a look into its history and use in MCM design.

Embracing Warmth and Earthiness:

During the mid-century modern movement, designers sought to create interiors that celebrated both form and function. Burnt Orange, with its warm and earthy tones, perfectly aligned with the movement's principles. Inspired by the colors of autumn landscapes and sun-kissed harvests, designers began incorporating burnt orange into their furniture creations, bringing a sense of warmth and organic charm to linear mid-century interiors.

Influential Designers and Iconic Pieces:

Visionary furniture designers of the mid-century era, such as Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, and Arne Jacobsen, played pivotal roles in popularizing Burnt Orange as a signature color. Their iconic pieces, including the famed Eames Lounge Chair and Saarinen's Tulip Chairs, often featured Burnt Orange upholstery or accents. These visionary designers recognized the color's ability to infuse spaces with vibrancy and sophistication, creating furniture that remains coveted to this day. It was the favorite color choice for Paul McCobb who used it throughout his designs.

A Perfect Match: Burnt Orange and Organic Forms:

The mid-century modern aesthetic was characterized by its clean lines, sleek curves, and harmonious connection with nature. Burnt Orange effortlessly complemented the organic forms and natural materials prevalent in mid-century furniture design. Whether adorning a sofa, accent chair, or sideboard, burnt orange upholstery added depth and character, highlighting the beauty of the mid-century designs and creating a harmonious balance between function and aesthetics. Modern furniture uses authentic materials like steel, teak, walnut, and glass to add a natural connection to design. And organic colors were a rule, not an exception.

Pairing Burnt Orange: Mid-Century Modern Style:

Burnt orange is seamlessly integrated with the mid-century modern color palette. It combines with earthy neutrals like walnut brown, warm teak, and creamy beige, amplifying the warmth and inviting nature of mid-century interiors. For a bolder approach, designers embraced contrasting shades like turquoise, mustard yellow, or olive green, resulting in captivating color schemes that exuded the iconic charm of the era. The Burnt Orange hue holds a special place in the mid-century modern design lexicon, symbolizing warmth, character, and a celebration of nature's beauty. Throughout the mid-century era, visionary designers embraced this captivating color, recognizing its ability to enhance the organic forms and clean lines of their furniture creations. Today, Burnt Orange continues to be a beloved choice for those seeking to infuse their interiors with the nostalgia and timeless appeal of mid-century modern design. By incorporating Burnt Orange into furniture pieces, designers and homeowners alike pay homage to an era that forever shaped the way we perceive and appreciate interior aesthetics.