The Exhibition Stig Lindberg: Master of 20th-Century Scandinavian Design to Be Held in Japan
29 January 2025
The Exhibition Stig Lindberg: Master of 20th-Century Scandinavian Design to Be Held in Japan
In August 2025, an exhibition celebrating the works of Stig Lindberg, the renowned master of 20th-century Scandinavian design, will open in Tokyo. This traveling exhibition will visit six major cities across Japan, showcasing approximately 300 pieces spanning Lindberg’s career, from the late 1930s to his final years.
Stig Lindberg: A Pioneer of Swedish Design
Swedish ceramicist and designer Stig Lindberg (1916-1982) remains one of the most representative designers of the 20th century, and his numerous designs and art continue to be loved by many people around the world.
Joining the esteemed Swedish ceramics manufacturer Gustavsberg in 1937, Lindberg quickly made his mark as a designer. He pursued groundbreaking methods of expression and created designs that harmonized practicality with aesthetic appeal. Over 40 years after his passing, his creations remain iconic, representing the signature style of Gustavsberg.
Lindberg’s Connection with Japan
Stig Lindberg traveled to Japan in the 1960s, marking a significant cultural exchange between Swedish and Japanese design traditions. This trip was pivotal in deepening the mutual influence between Scandinavian and Japanese aesthetics, which shared a common appreciation for simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship.
Lindberg was particularly interested in Japanese ceramics, which had a long tradition of refined craftsmanship. This influence is evident in his later works, which incorporated more organic forms and subtle color palettes, reflecting Japanese aesthetics.
Exhibition Highlights
The exhibition, titled ‘Stig Lindberg Exhibition: Master of the Scandinavian Design in the 20th Century’ will feature approximately 300 works from the late 1930s through Lindberg’s later years. The works are from the Lindberg family’s personal archive, and the family has also helped curate the selection.
The works on display will showcase Stig Lindberg’s designs, including tableware such as crockery and plates, as well as his popular faience and stoneware made in his studio, textile prints, illustrations for picture books, various design objects, and sketches. The exhibition will also include aspects of Lindberg’s work that have not previously been shown in Japan.
The exhibition will first open in Tokyo and Osaka at Takashimaya (Nihonbashi store and Osaka store) in August and September 2025.
Exhibition Dates and Locations in Japan
‘Stig Lindberg Exhibition: Master of the Scandinavian Design in the 20th Century’ will tour several cities in Japan starting in 2025. See the confirmed dates and venues below:
Location: Tokyo, Nihonbashi Takashimaya SC Main Building 8th Floor Hall
Open: Wednesday, August 21, 2025 to Sunday, September 7, 2025.
Location: Osaka, Osaka Takashimaya 7th floor Grand Hall
Open: September 10 to September 21, 2025
Location: Koka city, The Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park, the Museum of Contemporary Ceramic Art
Open: March 20 to May 10, 2026
Location: Oita City, Oita City Art Museum
Open: April 11 to May 18, 2026
Location: Iwaki City, Iwaki City Art Museum
Open: June 27 to August 23, 2026
Planned for September 2026: Yokohama Takashimaya
Location: Aichi Prefectural Ceramic Museum, Seto
Open: January 16 to March 14, 2027
Visit www.stiglindberg-exhibition.jp to learn more.
Interested in a collaboration with Stig Lindberg?
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Niklas Österling
Senior Brand & Sales Manager
