ERIK HÖGLUND Primitive Modernity

DATE: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 – Monday, December 8, 2025
PLACE: Isetan Shinjuku Main Building 2F "ISETAN THE SPACE"
ADDRESS: 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
TEL: 03-3352-1111 (main number)

Erik Höglund (1932–1998) was an unorthodox designer in Nordic modern design.
His works are characterized by an original sculptural beauty, where conflicting elements of primitive strength and sophisticated modernity are harmoniously balanced, re-imagining indigenous forms as modernism.
It also feels as if his experience of overcoming many difficulties after developing diabetes at the age of 12 gave his works a unique vitality.
While his unconventional style initially sparked both praise and criticism, he persevered in his beliefs, and in 1957, he became the youngest recipient of the prestigious Lunning Prize for Nordic designers, proving that his expression was "a part of Nordic design."
His works, which quickly rose to prominence and became the darlings of the era, swept through society at the time, but gradually lost their luster due to rampant imitation and popularization, eventually becoming buried in history.

ELEPHANT has been captivated by Erik Höglund's creativity and has held annual exhibitions since 2009 with the aim of re-shedding light on his works, re-evaluating their value, and communicating their appeal to many people.
This exhibition is the culmination of these efforts, featuring the largest scale of content in terms of both quality and quantity.
Based on a collection amassed over 20 years, the exhibition will showcase a wide range of his works, primarily glass pieces from his time at Boda, as well as wrought iron and woodwork.
Furthermore, you can also view his paintings, which demonstrate his artistic side, and items from his private space actually used in his summer house.
This exhibition and sale boasts an unparalleled scale and content globally, including his home country of Sweden, and we hope it will be an opportunity for visitors to experience the world of his unknown works and feel his unique charm.