George J. Sowden

George Sowden has influenced the design world with his progressive approach and iconic products. Born in 1942 in Leeds, UK, he studied architecture at the Gloucestershire College of Art before moving to Milan in 1970. As well as opening his own studio there, he founded the Memphis movement with Ettore Sottsass and others, which had a significant impact on design in the 1980s and made history.

He was instrumental in the design of the first Olivetti computers, worked for many global brands, and his handwriting is imprinted on iconic products such as the Star Lamp. His radical approach to colour and shape has allowed him to become one of the icons of global design. This is evidenced by a number of prestigious awards, the most important of which is undoubtedly the Compasso d'Oro. Other companies he has designed for include Alessi, Guzzini, Lorenz, Swatch, Segis, Moulinex and Tefal.