Function + Good Taste = Good Design

MoMA's exhibition, “The Value of Good Design”, explores unexpected icons that have defined the world of design over the past few years.

“Is there art in a broomstick? Yes, says the Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan, if it was designed for utility and good looks.” This sentence, from a 1953 Time magazine review of one of MoMA's Good Design exhibitions, goes directly to the heart of a question that the Museum has been asking since its creation: What is good design and how can it improve the day? to-day?

Featuring more than 100 pieces from the 1930s to the 1970s, from furniture to appliances, glass and electronics, transportation design, toys and graphics, "The Value of Good Design" exhibition explores the potential of design, and attempts define what “good” design is.

Charles Eames (American, 1907–1978), Ray Eames (American, 1912–1988). Prototype for Chaise Longue (La Chaise). 1948. The Museum of Modern Art, New York.

“Good design is a reflection of its time” says Juliet Kinchin, co-producer of the exhibition, “a well-designed product can look different from one moment to the next. Some mid-century designs have survived their use, but what I appreciate is the design is for so many different people from all walks of life.”

Dante Giacosa (Italian, 1905–1996). 500f city car. Designed 1957. The Museum of Modern Art, New York

Giovanni Pintori (Italian, 1912–1999 ). Olivetti Lexicon. 1954. The Museum of Modern Art, New York.

The exhibition also raises questions such as what Good Design might mean today, and whether mid-century values ​​can be translated and redefined for a 21st century audience.

But today, when we talk about good design, one thing remains the same, the goal of design is for it to be accessible, functional and beautiful.