Helena is pleased to have her own work and work by her late husband, industrial designer Niels Diffrient (1928-2013), on view in Acquired! Shaping the National Design Collection at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. This exhibition, which runs through September 2, 2024, highlights how the museum has built its collection to reflect current issues and illustrate design’s evolving role in daily interactions. Niels Diffrient’s Freedom Chair and associated prototype illustrate his profound contribution to ergonomics and office seating. Helena’s 58 Knitted Patches are included as part of an installation of textiles that relate to caregiving, mourning, and the memorialization of loved ones. Helena committed to crocheting and knitting for one hour every day while caring for Niels at the end of this life. She knit the single patch below on the day he died. More information can be found on the exhibition homepage.
Helena Hernmarck, Knit Patch, 2013. Wool, linen, cotton, 6 x 5 in. Collection of the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum.