Irving Harper

Date of Birth: July 14, 1916

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: August 4, 2015

Biography

Irving Harper was an influential American industrial designer and artist, best known for his contributions to mid-century modern design. Born in New York City, Harper developed an early interest in the arts and design, eventually studying at Cooper Union. His career took off when he joined the office of George Nelson, one of the preeminent figures in American design, where he played a crucial role in creating iconic pieces. Harper designed the Marshmallow Sofa and the Ball Clock, which have become symbols of mid-century modern aesthetics. Beyond furniture, Harper was also an accomplished graphic artist and created striking corporate logos. Despite his many contributions, he remained relatively unsung during his lifetime, often attributed to the collaborative nature of his work under Nelson’s name. Later in life, Harper turned his creative energies to paper sculptures, producing intricate and whimsical works that garnered critical acclaim. His unique vision and multifaceted talents made him a respected figure in the design community.

5 Interesting Facts about Irving Harper

1. Irving Harper never received formal credit for many of his designs, which were often attributed to George Nelson.

2. He created over 300 intricate paper sculptures in his later years, which were exhibited in galleries.

3. Harper’s Ball Clock was one of the first designs to embody the playful yet functional spirit of mid-century modernism.

4. He designed the logo for Braniff International Airways, which became iconic in the aviation industry.

5. Harper’s work has been featured in major publications and museum exhibits, celebrating his contributions to design.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Irving Harper

1. “Design is about making things good (and then better) and right (and fantastic) for the people who use and encounter them.”

2. “I never thought of myself as a great designer; I just loved doing it.”

3. “The beauty of paper is that it’s so flexible and yet so strong.”

4. “Mid-century modern design was about optimism and looking towards the future.”

5. “Art and design are ways to solve problems and create beauty in the world.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Irving Harper is not widely documented, but his designs have collectively been valued in the millions due to their lasting impact and popularity.

Children

Irving Harper had two children, Ruth and Robert Harper, who have both pursued careers outside of the design industry, maintaining a relatively private life.