Art of Scandinavia Season 1 Episode 3 Democratic by Design

In the third episode of Art of Scandinavia season 1, titled "Democratic by Design," viewers are taken on a journey through the history of Scandinavian design, exploring how the region's approach to creativity has been shaped by its social and political ideals.

The episode begins by examining the work of Alvar Aalto, one of Finland's most famous architects and designers. Viewers are introduced to Aalto's vision for a new kind of design, which focused on creating functional objects that reflected the natural world and the needs of people. Through interviews with experts and archival footage, the episode explores how Aalto's work represented a break with the past, and how it embodied the democratic ideals that were gaining ground in Finland in the aftermath of World War II.

From there, the episode moves on to explore other examples of Scandinavian design, from the iconic furniture of Arne Jacobsen and Verner Panton to the graphic design of Olle Eksell. Viewers are introduced to the work of these designers through interviews with experts, as well as visits to museums, galleries, and private collections. The episode places each designer in his or her historical and cultural context, examining how their work reflected broader social and political trends.

Throughout the episode, the theme of democratic design is emphasized, with particular attention paid to how Scandinavian designers sought to create objects that were accessible to all, regardless of social class or income. Viewers see how designers approached this goal in a number of ways, from using affordable materials to creating flexible, modular designs that could be adapted to different living spaces.

The episode also explores the role of design in shaping Scandinavian identity, both domestically and abroad. Viewers learn about the various ways in which Nordic design has been promoted and celebrated over the years, from high-profile exhibitions to collaborations with international companies. The episode discusses how the perceived simplicity, functionality, and beauty of Scandinavian design has helped to cement the region's reputation as a bastion of progressive, egalitarian values.

As the episode comes to a close, viewers are left with a sense of the unique contributions that Scandinavian designers have made to the world of art and design. The episode makes a compelling case for the enduring relevance of their work, as well as the importance of democratic ideals in shaping the creative process. Ultimately, "Democratic by Design" is a celebration not only of Scandinavian design, but also of the values that have made it so distinctive and influential.