Emily CM Anderson

Alexander Girard—Tokyo Design Week

An Uncommon Vision

Alexander Girard, director of design for Herman Miller’s textile division from 1952 to 1973, created iconic graphics and textiles for the company. This exhibit was installed in Herman Miller’s Tokyo store during Tokyo Design Week; its goal was to create a deeply immersive environment where Girard’s spirit is conveyed through the entirety of the design storytelling. The project encompassed the in-store exhibition, product photography, and an exhibition booklet—showing archival material that had never been displayed before—as well an interview with Girard’s grandchildren and artists featured on WHY. The store blended archival material with objects for sale, showing Girard’s wide range of textiles and furniture design for Herman Miller alongside other Girard-designed projects. A custom typeface was created for the show. It was inspired by a selection of Girard's hand-painted lettering, and was used for signage and the exhibition booklet.

Credits +

Exhibit Design— Standard Issue
Concept, Curation & Editorial Direction— Sam Grawe
Archival Curation— Amy Auscherman
Photography— Daici Ano
Typeface— Sean Kunke