From Meissen to Newson, Wedgwood to Westwood, design in all its forms and processes is a central part of our lives. Now one of the most unique collections of decorative arts, crafts and design in Australia comes together in the new permanent gallery, Inspired! Design across time, opening this July.
Inspired! presents a stunning selection of around 1000 Australian and international objects across furniture, fashion, textiles, graphics, glass, jewellery and metalwork, collected over the Museum's 125 year history. The exhibition conveys six major themes: Signatures and superstars (1960s to now); Mark of the maker; New century: new look; Adapting to a new land; Looking back, looking forward; and Patronage and possibilities (1700s).
Case studies explore the many ways in which ideas become reality; from the passion and skill of designers, makers and manufacturers in the development of ideas and products, and their relationships, to the needs and pleasures of the people who use, collect and commission their work.
Objects range from the most innovative designs of the present, such as furniture by Marc Newson and Zaha Hadid, to rare survivors from the past, like a bust of Baron Schmeidel from the Meissen porcelain factory of the 1700s, a spectacular gilt tea set designed by Napoleon’s silversmith and a rare gothic style Governor Macquarie chair.
Unique contemporary handmade objects by Gwyn Hanssen Pigott and Yvonne Koolmatrie sit beside one-off 19th century masterpieces, such as a silver and emu egg cricket trophy by William Kerr; classics by Italian and Swedish manufacturers; and an amazing selection of nineteenth century dress and key pieces by fashion designers including Mariano Fortuny, Akira Isogawa and Vivienne Westwood; as well as a rich selection of wallpaper designs by the legendary Florence Broadhurst.
“The Museum’s collection is unique in Australia in that it crosses past and present, Australian and international, and because of the wider scope of the Museum’s interests, decorative arts and design can also be considered in the context of technology, industry and social history. Inspired! offers a fascinating introduction to the Museum and at the same time gives an important context to related temporary and permanent exhibitions,” Senior curator, Decorative arts and design, Grace Cochrane says.