Museum of Applied Art | Cologne

Museum of Applied Art (Museum für Angewandte Kunst, MAKK) – In Detail

The Museum of Applied Art Cologne (Museum für Angewandte Kunst Köln, or MAKK) is one of the leading museums in Germany dedicated to showcasing applied arts, including design, decorative arts, and craftsmanship. Located in the heart of Cologne, this museum stands as a hub for the study and celebration of the intersection between art, design, and everyday life, featuring collections that span from historical pieces to contemporary works.

Overview

• Location: The Museum is located in the Altstadt (Old Town) of Cologne, near the Cologne Cathedral and the Hohenzollern Bridge.
• Address: Museum für Angewandte Kunst Köln, Ubierring 40, 50678 Köln, Germany.
• Founded: The museum was founded in 1888 as part of the city's commitment to showcasing art that influenced daily life and to promoting craftsmanship alongside fine art.
• Architectural Design: The building combines modern and historic elements, with the original part dating from the 19th century and later additions reflecting contemporary architecture.

History and Origins

Foundation and Early Years:

• The Museum of Applied Art was founded to celebrate the work of craftspeople and designers, emphasizing the value of objects designed for practical use yet also showcasing high artistic value. The collection aimed to prove that functional objects could be aesthetically pleasing while retaining their usefulness.
• Early collections focused on the craft traditions of the Rhineland and Europe, incorporating works from Medieval times through the Renaissance period and into the Baroque.

Modern Era and Expansion:

• Over time, the museum expanded its focus to include modern applied arts and designs from the Industrial Revolution to the present day. In the 20th century, the museum's collection grew to include works from Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Bauhaus, and Modernism, reflecting the ever-evolving relationship between functional design and artistic expression.
• A major expansion of the museum in the 1980s allowed for a broader presentation of international works, while also improving its space for temporary exhibitions. The museum became an important institution in the study and promotion of design history and applied arts.

Collection and Key Features

Historical Decorative Arts:

• The museum holds a rich collection of historical decorative arts, including ceramics, furniture, metalwork, and glassware. These objects offer insight into the material culture of past centuries, with notable pieces from the Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo periods.
• The collection of porcelain and ceramics is especially notable, with works from renowned European factories like Meissen, Würzburg, and Nymphenburg. These works showcase the intricate craftsmanship of different eras and styles.

Bauhaus and Modern Design:

• The Bauhaus movement is a central focus of the Museum's collection, with pieces from the early 20th century that emphasize functional design paired with modern aesthetics. Furniture, textiles, and graphic design works from Walter Gropius, László Moholy-Nagy, and Marianne Brandt highlight the Bauhaus influence on industrial design.
• In addition to Bauhaus, the museum houses works from other modernist design movements, including Art Deco and Constructivism, as well as the postmodern designs that came in the late 20th century.

Contemporary Design and Art:

• The museum features a vibrant collection of contemporary design, exploring the role of art and functionality in today’s world. This collection includes works in graphic design, product design, fashion, and interior design, showcasing how contemporary designers continue to shape the intersection of art and everyday objects.
• The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions on emerging designers and trends, reflecting the ongoing conversation between innovation, functionality, and beauty in the world of applied arts.

Furniture and Architecture:

• The furniture collection is one of the largest and most significant aspects of the museum. Spanning various periods, the collection includes iconic works from the Rococo to mid-century modern designs by prominent names like Mies van der Rohe, Charles and Ray Eames, and Arne Jacobsen.
• The architectural models and furniture pieces displayed in the museum illustrate the changing ideas about home design, from the highly ornamental to the clean lines of modernism.

Textiles and Fashion:

• A notable section of the collection focuses on textiles and fashion design, particularly the role that fabric plays in industrial design and daily life. This includes historic textiles, costume design, and modern fabric creations, reflecting how cloth and design interact with the human form and environment.
• The museum's collection includes pieces from fashion history and highlights significant contributions to textile design through the years.

Key Exhibitions and Events

Temporary Exhibitions:

• The museum hosts a series of temporary exhibitions that showcase contemporary design trends, as well as retrospectives of key design movements. These exhibitions provide insight into the intersection of art and function in the modern world.
• Recent exhibitions have included fashion design, graphic design innovations, and industrial design, focusing on the work of specific designers or larger trends in design history.

Design and Art Education:

• The museum frequently organizes workshops, lectures, and educational programs to engage visitors with the practice of applied arts and design. These programs target all ages and often include collaborations with art schools and design institutions to offer insight into both historical and contemporary practices in design.
• Guided tours are available to explore the museum’s collections, with special attention paid to the evolution of craftsmanship and the historical context of applied art.

Design Conferences and Symposia:

• The museum is also involved in the global conversation on design through conferences and symposia that bring together design professionals, artists, and scholars. These events often address the future of design, sustainability, and the impact of technology on applied art and design industries.

Museum Facilities

1. Architectural Spaces:
   • The museum itself is a blend of historic and modern architecture. While the 19th-century building reflects the design language of that time, the modern additions create a contemporary atmosphere that enhances the presentation of the collection. The building’s layout includes multiple floors dedicated to various collections, with spaces that allow for immersive engagement with the exhibits.
2. Museum Shop:
   • The museum shop offers a selection of design books, artifacts, unique gifts, and design products, many of which reflect the collections displayed in the museum. It’s a great place to find art-focused souvenirs, design resources, and contemporary crafted goods.
3. Café and Rest Areas:
   • The museum includes a café where visitors can relax and reflect on the exhibits. The space often features a modern design, offering light refreshments in a comfortable environment.
4. Accessibility:
   • The museum is committed to providing access to all visitors, with wheelchair access and facilities for people with disabilities. There are also special programs for children and families, as well as services for non-German speakers, making the museum inclusive and welcoming.

Conclusion

The Museum of Applied Art in Cologne (MAKK) offers a comprehensive journey through the world of design and craftsmanship. From its historical collections of medieval and Renaissance decorative arts to its cutting-edge contemporary design exhibitions, the museum showcases the dynamic relationship between art, functionality, and everyday life. Whether you're a design enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking for a deeper understanding of how art influences the world around us, the Museum für Angewandte Kunst is a must-visit destination in Cologne.