An exhibition on the life and creations of internationally acclaimed interior designer and Tangier resident Charles Sevigny is being presented by the American Legation in Tangier from June 30 to September 8, 2018. To celebrate his 100th birthday in June, the American Legation has also published a book by the historian Charles Sevigny, An American Abroad.
After serving with the U.S. Army in France during World War II, Charles Sevigny attended Parsons School of Design in New York York, where his talents were quickly recognized. That recognition included a grant from the famous decorator Elsie de Wolfe, which allowed him to return to France to continue his studies at Parsons Paris under the mentorship of Van Day Truex. He developed a style characterized by simplicity and quality, harmoniously bringing contemporary, sleek elements together with the luxurious and historical. These bold juxtapositions were revolutionary.
With his partner Yves Vidal, he developed a distinct aesthetic and prominent European presence for Knoll. He created interiors for Hubert de Givenchy and others in the beau monde of the day. Known for his graciousness and hospitality, he shared his own stunningly designed and storied homes in France and Tangier with the world, both in person and in the pages of the top design and lifestyle magazines.
On the occasion of his 100th birthday at a preview of the exhibition, Parsons School of Design and The New School presented Mr. Sevigny with the degree of Doctor of the Fine Arts, honoris causa, on June 29, 2018.
Photographs by Abdelbaar Mounadi Idrissi.
To view and download photos of Charles at the June 29 opening of this exhibit, please visit: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmnCSyf1 .
