Marva Griffin, the mastermind behind the world’s largest design fair is an outspoken friend to undiscovered designers. A well-known mentor to young and emerging designers, she is the founder and curator of SaloneSatellite, an exhibition space within the world’s largest furniture fair Salone del Mobile in Milan. Devoted to showcasing young design talent and connecting them with top industry decision makers, SaloneSatellite has become an unparalleled springboard for young design talent. Marva’s passionate project has been a not to be missed event for design aficionados and not to mention a favorite of Luminaire. It has successfully launched the careers of several household design names such as Oki Sato from Nendo, Studio Juju, Nao Tamura, and Poetic Lab to name a few. In its 19th edition, over 700 design students participated showcasing their prototypes. The designreport award honors designers showing particular promise. This year’s winners included Vittorio Venezia and special mention to David Lehmann.
In 2014, Marva was awarded the distinguished Compasso d’Oro for career achievement. Established in 1954 by Gio Ponti with the aim of spotlighting the value and quality of Italian design, the Compasso d’Oro is an Industrial Design Award given by the ADI (Association for Industrial Design). Marva received the prestigious award for her incredible force in launching the careers of emerging designers. Her passionate direction of SaloneSatellite has propelled it to new heights and become a force to reckon with. Born in Venezuela and educated in Milan, Marva began her career in the design world working for Piero Ambrogio Busnelli at C&B Italia, which later became B&B Italia. Since 2001, she is a member of the Architecture and Design committee at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Luminaire and Marva have a longstanding relationship. “My sincere appreciation to Nasir and Nargis Kassamali that in so many years together with their Luminaire team continue to promote wonderfully Italian and international furniture”, says Marva. We ardently look forward to her future design endeavors.
April 2015
