What sad news we came across at the end of our workday today, to learn that Jack Lenor Larsen died yesterday, at the age of 93. That said, what joy his work in fabrics and fibers had brought to modern design.

Renowned fiber artist and professor of fine arts, the late Ruth Kao, along with colleagues Grant Gunderson and Susan Gingrass who worked for Larsen, brought his work and influence to our attention many decades ago, and it still impacts our practice, and approach to fabrics and carpets in our palettes.  

Anyone who doesn’t know his work, should research and check him out.  His artistic approach to woven products changed our industry.  Many are still available at Cowtan & Tout.

The NYTs honored him with an incredible summary of his work and history:  https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/23/arts/jack-lenor-larsen-dead.html

Photo above from NYT article: Susan Wood/Getty Images
“Jack Lenor Larsen in his studio in 1982. His textile designs influenced artists and architects, and his work is in major museums around the world.”