Karim Rashid
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Karim Rashid (born 1960 in Cairo) is an industrial designer. He received a Bachelor of Industrial Design degree from Carleton University in 1982 and completed his postgraduate studies in Italy. Rashid has created over 2000 designs, including projects ranging from interiors, fashion, furniture, lighting, art and music to installations. He designs for mass-production as well as privately. In 1993, he opened his own studio in New York City. He is married to digital painter Megan Lang.
His approach to design can be described as functional and holistic. His "Oh Chair" for Umbra is one of his most famous designs. A recent design of his includes the vacuum, Kone. In the July 2, 2001 issue of Time, he was dubbed "the poet of plastic". He has also been criticized for being short-sighted in his use of materials that do not age well, and for what some see as his penchant for flagrant self-promotion over substantive design.
