Description
Book Synopsis: The first major publication devoted to weaver and designer Dorothy Liebes, reinstating her as one of the most influential American designers of the twentieth century. At the time of her death, Dorothy Liebes (1897–1972) was called "the greatest modern weaver and the mother of the twentieth-century palette." As a weaver, she developed a distinctive combination of unusual materials, lavish textures, and brilliant colors that came to be known as the "Liebes Look."
Yet despite her prolific career and recognition during her lifetime, Liebes is today considerably less well known than the men with whom she often collaborated, including Frank Lloyd Wright, Henry Dreyfuss, and Edward Durrell Stone. Her legacy also suffered due to the inability of the black-and-white photography of the period to represent her richly colored and textured works.
Extensively researched and illustrated with full-color, accurate reproductions, this important publication examines Liebes's widespread impact on twentieth-century design. Essays explore major milestones of her career, including her close collaborations with major interior designers and architects to create custom textiles, the innovative and experimental design studio where she explored new and unusual materials, her use of fabrics to enhance interior lighting, and her collaborations with fashion designers, including Clare Potter and Bonnie Cashin.
Ultimately, this book reinstates Liebes at the pinnacle of modern textile design alongside such recognized figures as Anni Albers and Florence Knoll.
Beautifully designed by Estudio Herrera, the book offers the reader a tactile experience. The real cloth cover with silkscreened typography and inset photograph opens to reveal an exposed spine and colored threads that tie together the page signatures and echo Liebes's own craft.
Published in association with Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum Exhibition Schedule: Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum (July 7, 2023–February 4, 2024)
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Introducing "A Dark, A Light, A Bright: The Designs of Dorothy Liebes" - the groundbreaking book that celebrates the life and work of one of the most influential American designers of the twentieth century. Dorothy Liebes, known as "the greatest modern weaver," revolutionized textile design with her unique combination of materials, textures, and vibrant colors. This long-overdue publication reinstates Liebes as a true pioneer in her field, alongside the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright and Florence Knoll.
Through extensive research and meticulously crafted full-color reproductions, this book offers an in-depth exploration of Liebes's remarkable career. Discover her collaborations with renowned interior designers and architects, where her custom textiles transformed spaces into works of art. Uncover her innovative and experimental design studio, where she fearlessly pushed the boundaries of textile design using unconventional materials. Learn how she ingeniously used fabrics to enhance interior lighting, creating a truly immersive environment.
One of the biggest challenges Liebes faced was the inability of black-and-white photography to capture the true essence of her vibrant and textured works. However, this book has overcome that obstacle, bringing her designs to life with vivid colors and accurate representation. Be enthralled by the stunning visuals and gain a newfound appreciation for Liebes's exceptional talent and artistry.
Designed by Estudio Herrera, this book is a visual treat in itself. The luxurious cloth cover, featuring silkscreened typography and an inset photograph, exudes sophistication. As you delve into its pages, you'll discover an exposed spine and colored threads that elegantly tie together the signature. This tactile experience replicates Liebes's own craftsmanship, immersing you in her world of design.
Don't miss the opportunity to own a piece of textile history. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Dorothy Liebes and be inspired by her revolutionary designs. Order your copy of "A Dark, A Light, A Bright: The Designs of Dorothy Liebes" today and rediscover the master of twentieth-century textile design.
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