Svenskt Tenn’s recent exhibition, “Frank in the Loom,” debuted at Stockholm Design Week, showcasing a distinctive blend of sustainability, handcraft, and aesthetic theory. This exhibition features a selection of limited-edition rag rugs crafted from Josef Frank fabrics, ingeniously double-woven into vibrant and colorful grids. By drawing inspiration from Margit Thorén’s Schackruta rug, this design pays tribute to a historic Svenskt Tenn piece while infusing it with modern sustainability values. The collection, expertly woven by Vandra Rugs in Ukraine, underscores the resilient spirit of textile culture.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Curator: Karin Södergren
Weaving Atelier: Vandra Rugs, Ukraine
Designer: Josef Frank
Exhibition Location: Strandvägen Gallery
The rag rug, historically a symbol of warmth and resourcefulness, fuses function and artistry by repurposing worn woolen garments, thus layering textures and colors in a manner both practical and visually appealing. Despite their rich tradition, these rugs have often been underestimated as mere women’s crafts or indicators of poverty instead of being recognized for their ingenious adaptability. Notably, rag rugs gained traction during the Arts and Crafts movement and saw a resurgence in the late sixties through early seventies. Today, they return triumphantly as a counter-response to the hyperindustrialization of our modern world, championing sustainability and tradition.
A centerpiece of the Frank in the Loom exhibition is a working loom featuring a runner in progress, underscoring the production process central to the showcase. Surrounded by historical pieces of Frank’s furniture, this hands-on presentation invites visitors to witness the weaving methodology. Here, upcycled Josef Frank textiles are innovatively combined with similar linens, creating robust yet soft rugs with vivid color variations. These designs, incorporating recognizable elements from Frank’s iconic patterns like Delhi, Brazil, and Green Birds, serve as testament to the potential for repurposing materials creatively and efficiently.
Karin Södergren, Svenskt Tenn’s Head Curator, emphasizes the artistry and craftsmanship of weaving at Vandra Rugs’ atelier in Ukraine, where the Frank in the Loom rugs are meticulously handwoven. The exhibition, housed in the minimalist Strandvägen Gallery, allows these designs to shine while featuring the transformation of Josef Frank’s vibrant patterns into Svenskt Tenn’s signature double-woven pieces. Josef Frank’s early work within the Viennese Modernist movement rejected puritanical design norms by fostering a more humanized approach to interior spaces, undoubtedly influencing his designs’ enduring appeal.
Josef Frank, a pivotal figure in design, defied restrictive modernist conventions through his innovative approach. His childhood passion for botany inspired him to craft imaginative flora that combined various plant features into lush landscapes. Frank’s commitment to harmony and wonder in home design established him as a seminal Austrian-Swedish interior designer. Today, Svenskt Tenn proudly preserves his extensive catalog of interiors, furniture, and sketches—totaling a remarkable 3,000 designs and 250 prints—reflecting their dedication to comfort and vibrant color across a century-long legacy.
Vandra Rugs plays a vital role in maintaining the arduous tradition of handwoven rugs, producing luxury, made-to-order pieces. The atelier champions a nurturing work environment, notably employing predominantly women both as weavers and in leadership roles, thus upholding the ancient crafting heritage with modern sensitivity. They offer weaving classes for beginners and experienced artisans, supporting skill development amidst political unrest. By promoting jobs and standing by their workers during uncertain times, Vandra Rugs embodies true luxury, championing care and respect for the craft.
This thoughtful exhibition, running until May 12, 2025, at Svenskt Tenn, invites visitors to explore “Frank in the Loom.” It underscores the resilience of handcraft traditions and celebrates innovative uses for existing materials. To learn more about this celebration of design heritage and the artistry of sustainable craft, visit Svenskt Tenn’s website.
