Ettore Sottsass

Ettore Sottsass (1917-2007) was an Italian architect and designer best known for co-founding the Memphis Group, a 1980s Postmodern design collective that produced unconventional furniture and lighting. In the 1060s, following his studies, he designed several products for the Olivetti company, including the iconic Valentine Portable Typewriter. He once said, "When I began designing machines, I also began to think that these objects, which sit next to each other and around people, can influence not only physical conditions but also emotions. They can touch the nerves, the blood, the muscles, the eyes and the moods of people." Today, his work is included in museum collections worldwide.