Fernando Campana, Brazilian design authority, dies at 61

Published on 11/17/2022 00:15 / Updated on 11/17/2022 00:42

(Credit: Play/Instagram)

Designer and architect Fernando Campana, 61, passed away on Wednesday (11/16). The information was confirmed by the Estúdio Campana’s social networks, which did not disclose the cause of death. Fernando is considered a Brazilian design icon and one of the most influential figures in the country.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Fernando Campana today, November 16, in São Paulo. We appreciate everyone’s solidarity and ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this time.”

Fernando was born in Brotas, in the interior of São Paulo, and graduated in Architecture from Unicentro Belas Artes in São Paulo. Together with his older brother, Humberto, in 1984 he founded the Campana atelier, which has achieved international recognition designing furniture and interesting pieces.

Fernando, with his Estúdio Campana, pioneered disruptive design, in particular for the use of everyday objects in the creation of furniture, such as teddy bears and dolls. “Deeply rooted in Brazilian culture and traditions, his work holds at its core universal values, such as freedom and human dignity, creating his identity through life experiences,” explains the workshop’s website.

The innovative design of the pieces is part of the creative process that elevates everyday items, like armchairs and chairs, to gentility. Brazilian characteristics, such as an abundance of colours, blends and creative chaos, poetically bring the triumph of simple solutions,” Estúdio Campana completes.

In addition to designing furniture, Fernando’s genius also permeated architecture, landscape, interior design, scenography, art and fashion. All this creativity has resulted in, along with his brother, a collection of limited editions and one-of-a-kind handcrafted pieces scattered across renowned galleries in New York, London, Rome and more.

One of the world’s leading architects

Fernando and Humberto Campana are currently listed as one of the most prominent architects in the world and among the 100 most important design professionals.

In 2013, Forbes magazine placed the brothers among the 100 most influential Brazilians. In addition, Fernando received the Order of Cultural Merit from Brasília and the Order of Arts and Letters from the French Ministry of Culture.