FRANKFURT.- At the Museum of Applied Art, a vibrant discussion unfolds as the institution unveils its latest publication, Thinking in Material: The Model Between Design Process and Museum Collection. This event, marked by an insightful panel discussion, explores the multifaceted roles of design models in contemporary culture and their preservation in museum collections.

The newly released book, published by av edition, gathers a consortium of experts including Markus Frenzl, a professor of Design and Media Theory at the University of Munich; Oliver Michl, a model maker at Braun P&G; and Grit Weber, the Deputy Director and Curator of Design, Art, and Media at the Museum of Applied Art. Together, they dissect the interdisciplinary perspectives and pivotal roles that design models play in bridging theoretical design and practical application.

The Role of Design Models

Design models serve as tangible carriers of future concepts, archival museum objects, and essential tools for designers and model makers. The Museum of Applied Art, renowned for its extensive collection of models and prototypes—including some 1,800 unique models—highlights the unique nature of these artifacts. Unlike mass-produced items, each model is irreplaceable, crafted from unique materials and combinations that necessitate specialized conservation approaches.

From 2021 to 2023, the museum employed a trained conservator specializing in plastics and composite objects to develop storage concepts and conduct conservational reviews. This project fostered a significant exchange between the museum and Braun's design department, leading to new insights into the stewardship and interpretation of design models.

Interdisciplinary Insights and Future Perspectives

The publication not only delves into the historical and practical aspects of model making but also repositions the design model within the broader context of contemporary design challenges and future directions. This shift from a focus solely on product design to broader thematic considerations reflects a maturing discipline increasingly concerned with sustainability and innovation.

Contributions and Structure

Thinking in Material features scholarly essays on design research, conservation, and cultural studies, alongside interviews with practitioners from product development and model making. These textual contributions are complemented by a photographic section that offers a sensory-aesthetic perspective on the models discussed.

The authors, including Markus Frenzl, Judith Block, Benjamin Wilson, Oliver Michl, Katja Franziska Siebel, Kathrin Röttger, and Grit Weber, provide a rich tapestry of perspectives that enhance our understanding of design as both a creative and curatorial practice.

Accessibility and Publication Details

Reflecting its international relevance, the book is published in both German and English by av edition—a renowned publisher in the fields of architecture and design. Available for purchase at the museum's cashier for 24 euros, the publication promises to be an essential resource for designers, curators, and scholars alike.

As the Museum of Applied Art continues to foster discussions and collaborations that bridge the theoretical and practical aspects of design, Thinking in Material stands out as a seminal work. It not only advances our understanding of the roles of design models within both the design process and museum collections but also invites readers to consider the evolving responsibilities of museums as stewards of design history and innovation.

For more information about Thinking in Material: The Model Between Design Process and Museum Collection, visit the Museum of Applied Art's website.