Pirouette: Turning Points in Design Exhibition at MoMA
On January 26, 2025, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) will open its doors to the highly anticipated exhibition “Pirouette: Turning Points in Design,” running until October 18, 2025. This exhibition, curated by Paola Antonelli, Senior Curator of the Department of Architecture and Design at MoMA, promises to showcase a diverse array of objects that have left a lasting impact on the design world and beyond.
The exhibition will feature a curated selection of objects spanning from the 1930s to the present day, sourced primarily from MoMA’s extensive collection. These objects, ranging from furniture to electronics to information design, have all played a significant role in shaping human behaviors, experiences, and even history itself. Some of these objects are instantly recognizable, while others may be lesser-known gems cherished by a niche audience of enthusiasts and experts.
In a statement about the exhibition, Antonelli eloquently captures the essence of design’s transformative power, stating, “Every object has a story. Some objects, moreover, make history—or change it. Design can help us steer the course in positive directions by making us aware of, and helping us correct, negative behaviors. It can also invent novel behaviors that embody new goals, sustainability and justice among them.”
The objects on display at Pirouette will exemplify how designers have harnessed the power of experimentation, imagination, and rigorous research to redefine human behaviors and experiences. From Tejo Remy’s unconventional “You Can’t Lay Down Your Memory” Chest of Drawers to Don Pettit’s ingenious Coffee Cup for Astronauts and Sabine Marcelis’s playful Candy Cube, each object tells a unique story of innovation and creativity.
Among the iconic objects featured in the exhibition are the groundbreaking Apple Macintosh 128K, the revolutionary Sony Walkman, the ubiquitous Post-it Note, and the game-changing Spanx by Sara Blakely. These objects have not only revolutionized their respective industries but have also reshaped the way we live and interact with the world around us.
Furthermore, Pirouette will introduce visitors to newer objects like Gabriel Fontana’s Multiform game and set of sports uniforms, which embody openness and a fresh approach to team spirit. These objects, while relatively new, have the potential to leave a lasting impact on the design landscape and inspire future generations of designers.
In essence, “Pirouette: Turning Points in Design” is not just an exhibition of objects; it is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the profound influence that design has on our daily lives. By exploring these transformative objects, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation for the power of design to shape our world and drive positive change.
