Memphis

Founded in Milan in 1980 by Ettore Sottsass and a group of visionary designers (including Martine Bedin, George J. Sowden, and Michele de Lucchi), Memphis redefined the design landscape with its radical, emotionally charged aesthetic. Rejecting functionalism, the collective introduced a bold visual language rich in symbolism and color. Over the years, its roster of creatives has expanded, but its mission remains unchanged: to create objects that evoke emotion and challenge conventions. Memphis pieces are now celebrated in major museums, from the Victoria & Albert Museum to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.