Cooper Hewitt Launches Thematic Design Collection Installation

On October 5, 2026, the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York opened a new permanent installation titled 'Design Across Time: Exploring the Smithsonian's Design Collection.' This innovative exhibition features over 125 design works, organized thematically rather than chronologically, allowing visitors to explore the creative actions of designers throughout history. By juxtaposing a 1,100-year-old Egyptian cup with a contemporary glass vessel from 2023, the museum illustrates the continuity of design practices over time. This approach not only highlights the artistry involved in design but also invites viewers to reflect on how creativity can help navigate modern complexities.

The installation is structured around six thematic clusters: Repeat, Transform, Show Off, Simplify, Tweak, and Play. Each cluster presents objects that showcase specific design actions rather than fitting them into a strict historical timeline. For example, the Repeat cluster includes a 2011 Vlisco textile design, demonstrating the purposeful use of repetition in aesthetic strategy. The Transform section features a 2017 Roping Stool by designer Stephen Burks, crafted from salvaged materials, emphasizing creativity in repurposing waste. Simplify is represented by a striking 1992 poster for Spike Lee's Malcolm X, which distills design to its essence through bold typography.

Key stakeholders in this project include museum director Maria Nicanor, who emphasized the importance of expanding access to the nation's design collection, and the exhibition's curatorial team, which includes Matilda McQuaid and Susan Brown. The installation runs for an extended period of two years, with rotating objects that will keep the exhibition fresh and engaging for repeat visitors. Digital features, such as Alexandra Daisy Ginsberg's immersive video installation, 'The Substitute,' which uses AI to resurrect an extinct species, further enhance the visitor experience, allowing for a deeper connection with the themes presented.

The broader benefits of this exhibition extend beyond aesthetic enjoyment. By framing design as a tool for addressing uncertainty and complexity, the installation encourages visitors to think critically about the role of creativity in their lives. The thematic organization provides a framework for understanding design processes, which can be particularly valuable for students and professionals in the field. Additionally, the museum is planning extensive public programming, including talks and workshops, to further engage the community and foster discussions around design and creativity.

Looking ahead, Cooper Hewitt is also working on a redesigned online collections platform that will integrate AI technology, allowing users to explore the museum's extensive collection of over 215,000 objects. This initiative, along with the thematic installation, reflects the museum's commitment to making design accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences. As the Smithsonian prepares for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the nation, the Cooper Hewitt's approach offers a fresh perspective on American design history, highlighting the enduring relevance of creativity in society.