Russel Wright

Russel Wright (1904-1976) Russel Wright's career coincided with the emergence of the industrial designer as a major force in the world of design. He was highly successful as a designer of dinnerware, fabrics, appliances, furniture, even radios and a baby grand piano. Born in Lebanon, Ohio in 1904, Wright progressed to the study of art at the Cincinnati Art Academy, Law at Princeton, and then worked in theatrical design under Norman Bel Geddes in New York, before striking out on his own with Russel Wright Designs. Wright is known today for his success as a designer of home dinnerware and furniture. American Modern dinnerware debuted in 1937, ultimately sold over 80 million pieces, and is actively collected today. Wright followed this success with other lines for home and commercial use (see below for links). His urge to innovate led him to the exploration of art pottery with Bauer Pottery of Atlanta, and a wide varity of commercial designs, including the Theme Formal line with Yamato of Japan in 1965. His partner in creativity was his wife, Mary Einstein Wright, who developed her own designs as well as assisting in the marketing of Russel's work.

Books about Russel Wright and other designers from , including the new edition of The Collector's Encyclopedia of Russel Wright and the Collector's Guide to Bauer Pottery.