Super Lamp Martine Bedin: A Timeless Design Icon

Introduction

The world of design is always evolving, with new trends emerging every year. Despite this, there are certain designers whose work remains timeless and continues to inspire generations. One such designer is Martine Bedin, the creator of the iconic Super Lamp. This article explores the story behind the Super Lamp and its significance in design history.

Who is Martine Bedin?

Martine Bedin was born in France in 1957 and grew up in Bordeaux. She studied architecture in Bordeaux and later in Venice, Italy. In 1978, along with a group of young designers, she co-founded the Memphis Group, a design movement that aimed to challenge the traditional notions of design. The group’s work was characterized by bold colors, asymmetrical shapes, and the use of unexpected materials.

The Birth of the Super Lamp

In 1981, Martine Bedin designed the Super Lamp, which has since become a design icon. The lamp was created for a competition organized by the Italian company Flos. Bedin’s design caught the attention of the judges and won the first prize.

The Design

The Super Lamp is a floor lamp made of lacquered metal and fabric. It has an unusual shape, with a curvilinear form that looks like a person sitting down. The lamp is available in a variety of vibrant colors, such as red, yellow, blue and green.

Significance

The Super Lamp is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it was the first product designed by the Memphis Group that went into production. Secondly, it challenged the traditional notion of what a lamp should look like. Bedin’s design was playful, unconventional and functional at the same time. It became an instant hit and helped to establish the Memphis Group as a major force in the design world.

The Legacy of the Super Lamp

The Super Lamp has inspired countless designers and continues to be a popular design object today. It has been featured in several design exhibitions, such as the 2004 “Memphis: Research, Experiences, Failures and Successes” exhibition at the Centre Pompidou in Paris. The lamp has also been included in the permanent collection of several museums, such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Martine Bedin’s Super Lamp may have been designed over 40 years ago, but its impact on the design world is still felt today. The lamp’s playful and unconventional design challenged traditional notions of what a lamp should look like and helped to establish the Memphis Group as a major force in the design world. The Super Lamp is a true design icon that will continue to inspire generations to come.