Scandinavian midcentury design strikes a chord with many here in the Twin Cities. Considering the heavy influence of German and Scandinavian heritage embedded in Minnesota culture, as well as the worldwide influence of furniture powerhouse IKEA, it wasn't surprising that every seat in the house was full for our May 13 Library Salon Series event on Danish Teak Classics. 

Retired University of St. Thomas art history professor and design historian Claire Selkurt kicked off our discussion with a brief background of mid-century Scandinavian design in the U.S. Then, Steve Swanson, owner of Danish Teak Classics, a Northeast Minneapolis furniture showroom, followed up with some observations and comments specifically about Scandinavian furniture design – using an array of beautiful pieces brought from his own home and showroom as examples. Claire and Steve’s passion and knowledge on the subject was made even more evident in the as they fielded a wide variety of questions from an interested audience. Longing looks dominated many faces as Steve wrapped up the talk with invitations to “take a seat” on beautifully refurbished furniture – including an original wishbone chair and valet chair.

Thanks to Claire and Steve for a wonderful evening and a big thanks to our social hour partners TeaSource and A Gourmet Thyme Too for the refreshments.

If you're in the Twin Cities, make sure to stop by for our last Salon Series event of the spring: On June 10, local St. Paul nonprofit Urban Boatbuilders will be talking about their organization, programming, and the art of boatbuilding.
 

Presented by the American Craft Council, the Library Salon Series is a series of free public presentations exploring craft, making, and art.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.