Today, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris opens an exhibition of contemporary Finnish design, which also showcases the “Lumimarja” fabrics designed by Erja Hirvi for Marimekko. The delicate and expressive “Lumimarja” pattern from 2004, inspired by snow-covered winter nature, is well on its way to becoming a new Marimekko classic.

The theme of the exhibition, which is a collaboration between the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and Design Forum Finland, is wood – as a material or an age-old source of inspiration. Works by over 20 designers will be on view in the show curated by Dominique Forest, curator of the museum’s department of modern and contemporary design. The exhibition design is by the French designer and architect Nestor Perkal. The show is entitled “Design contemporain finlandais – Promenons-nous dans le bois”, and it will run until 31 August 2008.

The exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs is part of the “100% Finlande” cultural initiative which comprises over 250 events presenting Finnish culture in France. Among the earlier events, the “Cool Dozen+” exhibition of chairs and textiles featured Marimekko fabric prints by as many as 12 designers. The two shows in Paris have offered Marimekko a great opportunity to make its name known in one of the most notable design centres in the world.

The extensive “Marimekko: Fabrics, Fashion, Architecture” travelling exhibition, organised by the Design Museum in Helsinki, was on view in Mexico in the early spring. The exhibition has been a huge success everywhere, introducing visitors to the unique design philosophy and lifestyle concept of Marimekko and showcasing products that have brought joy and colour into people’s everyday lives all over the world.

“Design contemporain finlandais – Promenons-nous dans le bois”, from 29 May to 31 August 2008
Musée des Arts décoratifs
107, rue de Rivoli
75001 Paris

Opening hours:
Tue, Wed, Fri: 11 am–6 pm
Thu: 11 am–9 pm
Sat, Sun: 10 am–6 pm
Closed Mondays

For further information, please contact:

MARIMEKKO CORPORATION  
Marketing Communications

Tiina Alahuhta   
PR Manager   
Tel. +358 9 758 7328  
E-mail: tiina.alahuhta@marimekko.fi