The Textile Museum in Washington DC has launched a new exhibit called Art by the Yard: Women Design Mid-Century Britain, now through Sept. 12 2010. The exhibit looks at post-war textile design in Great Britain, focusing on Lucienne Day (1917- 2010), Jacqueline Groag (1903-1985) and Marian Mahler (1911-1983). A tour through the exhibit would be a great way to learn more about the origins of mid-century modern. Many of their bold, abstract designs are still very popular. 

From the exhibition description:

Incorporating dramatic saturated colors and bold motifs inspired by artists like Alexander Calder and Joan Miró, these young designers transformed the market by inspiring elegant yet affordable product lines that brought the world of contemporary art into everyone’s homes.

Wallpaper magazine reviewed the exhibit and put together a slideshow with a number of images from the collection, Lucienne Day in particular:



For those who don't live near DC or can't attend, the Textile Museum is selling copies of the exhibition catalog for only $25.