ALPHARETTA, Ga. (February 24, 2005) — American mid-century design icons Charles and Ray Eames helped set new creative boundaries in art, architecture, film, furniture, exhibit design and graphic design.  With this in mind, Neenah Paper has announced a partnership with the Eames Foundation to help preserve the legendary designers’ historic home in the Pacific Palisades section of Los Angeles.  The partnership involves a Neenah Paper contribution at the Spirited Sponsor level, ongoing paper support and the creation of a beautiful private watermark specifically created for the Foundation. “We are thrilled about our partnership with Neenah Paper,” says Eames Demetrios, the designers’ grandson and Chairman of the Board of the Eames Foundation. “It helps us support a piece of history, a particular way of thinking and an approach to living.” The partnership reinforces two of Neenah Paper’s missions: to recognize design excellence both past and present and to be the leading premium paper mill focused on environmental stewardship.  Designed and built by Charles and Ray Eames in 1949, the unique Case Study home was developed to also include a design studio.  It is situated on a pristine hilltop meadow overlooking the Pacific Ocean and served as a backdrop for, as Charles Eames described, “life in work” with nature as a “shock absorber.”  As a result of Neenah’s financial and paper partnership, the newly established Eames Foundation draws one step closer to preserving this icon and the legacy of Charles and Ray Eames.  “Charles and Ray Eames started a revolution in the way we think, and the world hasn’t stopped spinning yet,” said Tom Wright, Director of Advertising and Design for Neenah Paper.  “Their furniture was more than merely functional in the Eames’ hands, it became art.  In fact, the famous leather Lounge Chair and Ottoman created by the Eameses sit in the New York Museum of Modern Art.  The couple also helped pioneer the graphic arts industry, leading to its recognition as a serious profession.  The Eameses demonstrated the power of communication through their ‘Powers of Ten’ work, just to name one of the over 100 short films they produced. But, more importantly, Charles and Ray’s enduring popularity shows us the power of two.  We’re proud to help maintain their legacy, their commitment and philosophy, whether designing on paper, sculpting seating, or visualizing and communicating through film and exhibits.  We wish to ensure that future generations of designers do not miss out on their contributions.”