Essential Eames: Words & Pictures

Charles and Ray Eames are among the most influential designers of the 20th century. Enthusiastic and tireless experimenters, this beloved husband-and-wife duo moved fluidly between the fields of photography, film, architecture, exhibition-making and furniture and product design. The Eames Office was a hub of activity where the Eameses and their collaborators produced an array of pioneering designs, communicating their ideas with a boundless creativity that defined their careers.

Underlying all this work was their robust and compelling philosophy of design, which was marked by a deep commitment to the power of process and problem solving, a profound skepticism of style for its own sake, and the essential notion that the designer’s role was that of a good host, anticipating the needs of the guest. Just as important, their work was infused with a joyous spirit, summed up in the expression “Take your pleasure seriously.”

From personal letters, photographs, drawings and artwork, to their products, models, multimedia installations and furniture, Essential Eames includes not only some of the designs for which they are best known, but provides an insight into the lives of the Eameses, the Eames Office and the breadth of their pioneering work, bringing their ideas and playful spirit to life.

Written by Eames Demetrios, grandson of Charles and Ray Eames, director of the Eames Office and chairman of the Eames Foundation.