Benin Brocade

The idea of presenting new designs in the form of a specific collection was not originated by the company, but Jack Larsen used this concept to particularly advantage. It was primarily a marketing tool, but one that affected the work and direction of the design studio. Initial inspiration as well as color and texture needed to reflect the concept of each collection. Textiles developed in this way often complemented or highlighted each other and encouraged interior designers to use a variety of Larsen fabrics on each project. The idea for the African Collections came as a result of Jack Larsen and Win Anderson's trip to Africa in 1961. Both designers were inspired by the distinctive architecture, pottery, and traditional cloth that they saw. Synthesizing this essence into contemporary forms, rather than replicating what they had seen, was one of the studio's particular skills. The African Collection was presented in 1963 and African II in 1964. They were two of the company's most successful collections.