MUSE
Eileen Gray
I was recently thinking about Eileen Gray, an under recognised multi-faceted artist; architect, furniture designer, artist, prominent in the early part of the 20th century - who is without a doubt a muse of mine.
I am particularly drawn to her rugs, MOMA in New York have one from 1928 that I find particularly inspirational. The simplicity of this piece fills me with pleasure every time I see it. It is made up of a series of dots that make three perfect squares, interrupted by several thin lines that stretch the width of the rug, enclosed with another delicate single line that creates a border to the piece. The considered spacing of the elements make it beautiful & simple, but to my mind a very impactful rug that oozes calmness and tranquillity.
Rug, 1928. Eileen Gray. MOMA Collection
Gray’s upbringing saw her moving between Ireland and London, she studied painting at the Slade, and then moved to Paris to be with like minded artists. In 1922 she opened her much acclaimed shop in Paris, ‘Galerie Jean Desert’ selling furniture and rugs alongside running an interior design service. A year later, she exhibited her Monte Carlo bedroom boudoir at Salon des Artists in Paris - receiving much criticism. I loved that the room was unapologetically functional, individualistic in style, and allowed empty space as an encouragement of relaxation.
Looking at it again now I find her use of space perfectly balanced, and so incredibly modern for its time. The furniture seems to merge with its surroundings rather than shout, it could be transposed to any apartment/house today.
Villa E1027 with Bibendum and Transat chairs. Eileen Gray. 1929
Gray’s contribution to 20th Century design classics includes the Adjustable Tubular Table and Bibendum Chair, both extraordinarily modern for the time. Additionally her choice of materials was very forward thinking, focusing on clean and sleek lines, creating unfussy functional yet striking pieces.
I have been imagining our Cavalla throw draped beautifully over the back of her chubby green Bibendum Chairs - a perfect combination in my minds eye.
See more of Gray’s artworks as part of Moma’s collection, learn more via The Guardian, and look inside Villa E1027.
- Heti Gervis
