On January 19, 2026, as part of the “Introduction to the Profession” project by the Junior Academy of Design and Arts, an online lecture titled “Eileen Gray: A Legend of French Design” was delivered by Yelyzaveta ZUBCHENKO, a graduate of the “Innovative Design” educational programme at the Department of Design.

The event brought together over 70 school students and interested listeners, offering them a closer look at the world of design through the work of one of the most remarkable yet underappreciated figures of the 20th century.

During the lecture, participants learned that the familiar side table designed for comfortable breakfast in bed was invented by a woman over a hundred years ago — Eileen Gray. The speaker highlighted Gray’s bold design experiments and innovative furniture, including a chair for those who dislike sitting upright, as well as the legendary Bibendum Chair, created in honour of the Michelin Man.

Special attention was given to the more complex chapters of her biography, particularly the story involving Le Corbusier, who painted murals on the walls of Eileen Gray’s house (the modernist villa E-1027), and how this episode affected her life and professional recognition.

The event was not only informative but also an inspiring example of how persistence, creativity, and faith in one’s ideas can change the history of design. The lecture was met with lively interest and demonstrated the importance of such meetings for the career guidance and motivation of future designers.

We extend our gratitude to Yelyzaveta Zubchenko for the insightful lecture and to all participants for their active involvement and curiosity about the world of design.