HELSINKI (AP) — Yrjö Kukkapuro, a celebrated Finnish designer known for his innovative postmodern chair designs that graced a multitude of spaces in Finland and found their place in prestigious art institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, has passed away at the age of 91. His daughter, Isa Kukkapuro-Enbom, confirmed his passing on Saturday at his residence on the outskirts of Helsinki, as reported in an email to The Associated Press on Sunday. The news was also corroborated by a statement released by Studio Kukkapuro, where Isa serves as the curator. The exact cause of his demise has not been disclosed.
A statement from the studio reflected on Kukkapuro’s enduring legacy, noting, “Almost every Finn has experienced the comfort of a chair he designed — be it in a subway station, a bank, a school, or a library.” It further highlighted Kukkapuro’s relentless pursuit of creativity and innovation, stating, “Yrjö Kukkapuro never ceased to experiment and explore new concepts. Even in his final days, he was engrossed in envisioning his next chair design, the blueprint of which was vivid in his mind. Unfortunately, his assistant was unable to capture his vision in drawings before his passing.”
Over a remarkable career spanning more than seven decades, Kukkapuro’s chairs garnered acclaim for their comfort, practicality, ergonomic features, and distinctive design elements. Notable creations included the Ateljee chair, the Karuselli chair, the Long Chair, and his most iconic piece, the Experiment chair.
The Experiment chair, unveiled in 1982, initially challenged conventions with its avant-garde aesthetics but ultimately achieved commercial success, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of postmodern furniture design. Characterized by whimsical, undulating armrests in vibrant hues, a plush upholstered back and seat, and a unique angled seating position despite the flat frame resting on the ground, the Experiment chair captivated audiences with its bold and innovative approach.
While production of the Experiment chair ceased in the 1990s, the European furniture brand Hem recently obtained permission from Kukkapuro’s estate in 2021 to reintroduce the design with subtle modifications to its dimensions and construction. Hem’s founder and CEO, Petrus Palmér, expressed his condolences on Kukkapuro’s passing, acknowledging his pioneering spirit in the realm of furniture design. He remarked, “Yrjö was a true trailblazer in the field, demonstrating that a daring, unconventional mindset is essential to leaving a lasting imprint.”
Available for purchase for up to 2,399 euros ($2,479) on Hem’s website, the Experiment chair continues to captivate with its timeless appeal and enduring charm. Described as “a fusion of artistry
