b. 1904 d. 1976
Site Affiliation: Manitoga / The Russel Wright Design Center
Designer Russel Wright (b. 1904) introduced modernism to millions of Americans at mid- century. Born in Lebanon, Ohio, Wright briefly attended Princeton and The Art Students League, and apprenticed to set designer Norman Bel Geddes. Together, Russel and his wife/business partner Mary launched his decades-long career as a prolific designer of objects for the home. Commercial success included their American Modern line of dinnerware, furniture and textiles, and the melamine dinnerware, Residential, which won MoMA’s Good Design Award in 1953. Wright’s postwar work, including Manitoga’s buildings and landscape, demonstrated an affinity with Japanese design inspired by his travels for the US government. After Mary’s premature death in 1952, Wright raised their daughter Ann, living at Manitoga full time from 1965 until his passing in 1976. In later years, Wright spent long hours shaping the landscape with his life partner, graphic artist, Joe Chapman. He considered Manitoga his greatest achievement.
Primary Medium: Ceramics, wood, metal
Primary Stylistic Term: Modernist
Fun Fact: Manitoga was coined by Russel Wright from Algonquin words meaning “place of great spirit” and “beautiful place.”
Recommended Publications: Russel and Mary Wright: Dragon Rock at Manitoga by Jennifer Golub (2021); Russel Wright: Creating American Lifestyle by Donald Albrecht and Robert Schonfeld (2001); Guide to Easier Living by Russel and Mary Wright (reissued 2003); Russel Wright: Good Design is for Everyone: In His Own Words (2001)