The museum as an institution transformed over the 20th century from a repository for collections of objects, art and historical artifacts into the cultural center we know today. With the knowledge of its evolution in the past, the exhibit examines potential uses of the museum in the 21st century. One aspect under the microscope is the relationship between designers and the post-millenial museum. Several of the installations in After the Museum could be considered incubators for prototypes of designers’ work as it allows them to see how people interact with their pieces and receive direct feedback. The audience of a public forum allows them to take their experiments out of the lab, so to speak.

Yuzna organized After the Museum with Guest Curator Dan Rubinstein as the first physical iteration of the museum’s American Design Now program series. Launched in 2011, the program brings together the design community to examine trends, hurdles and developments in the field. Complementing the exhibition are more than 40 programs open to the public. Ranging from workshops to lectures and master classes, the events will delve deeper into conceptual aspects of design.

A list of programs can be viewed here. Some highlighted presenters include Alexandra Lange, Stefan Sagmeister, and Murray Moss.

After the Museum will be on view through June 9.

For a preview, click through to the slideshow.

Appears In

MAD’s After the Museum