CINCINNATI, OH.- This past year marked the Cincinnati Art Museum’s first major acquisitions in the field of contemporary Dutch design. Going Dutch, introduces contemporary Dutch Design, its international importance, and influence through new permanent collection acquisitions and loans from local private collectors.

Many of the works of art on display are novice re-inventions of the objects we use and live with every day. They are associated with the revolutionary collective, Droog Design. Starting in the early 1990’s, Droog (Dutch for “dry”) has shaken up the contemporary field of design. Their designs are smart, witty and often offer critical alternatives to our daily lives, commenting on the social, economical and environmental issues that confront us today.

A wax vase created by honeybees; A chest made of re-claimed drawers bound together with a mover’s strap speaks to the memories and the past lives of objects. It offers an alternative to our over consumption. A teapot made of “bone” china in the shape of pig’s skull covered with a tea cozy of water rat fur, provides cheeky commentary on the ritual of high tea. “These are objects that are about ideas, that ask questions and give increased meaning to the most ordinary of objects from park benches to jewelry,” says Amy Dehan, Associate Curator of Decorative Arts and Design.

The exhibition is on view from February 12th through April 10th.