LithoMania: Design Lab #11

Students from the Idar-Oberstein campus of the Trier University of Applied Sciences explore the complex ambivalence of gemstones in the LithoMania exhibition at the Kunstgewerbemuseum in Berlin. The exhibition series Design Lab invites various design labs to present their projects and engage with the museum's collection.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 22 April 2022
Publisher: Arnoldsche

For thousands of years, rare stones have captivated the human imagination. While their extraction is fraught with conflict, the trading and processing of these precious gems bring people from the farthest corners of the globe together. In Germany, the town of Idar-Oberstein holds a renowned reputation as a hub for gemstone trading and processing. Students from all over the world flock to this town to pursue their studies and gain practical experience with rare materials.

In the captivating world of gemstones, a unique exhibition titled "LithoMania" takes place as part of the "Design Lab" exhibition series at the Kunstgewerbemuseum in Berlin. This exhibition is a collaborative venture between the Idar-Oberstein campus of the Trier University of Applied Sciences and the Kunstgewerbemuseum. The students, armed with their creativity and expertise, delve into the intricate and multifaceted nature of gemstones, exploring their significance beyond the realm of jewelry design. Through a diverse range of mediums, including objects, drawings, photographs, and texts, they unravel the complex ambivalence of these precious stones.

Since its inception in 2019, the "Design Lab" exhibition series has been a platform for design labs, organizations, and students to showcase their cutting-edge projects and engage in meaningful dialogue with the Kunstgewerbemuseum's extensive collection. This collaborative endeavor fosters a vibrant exchange of ideas, pushing the boundaries of creativity and inspiring new perspectives on the world of design.

The "LithoMania" exhibition offers visitors a captivating journey into the world of gemstones, showcasing the students' innovative approaches and artistic interpretations. From intricate sculptures to thought-provoking installations, each piece invites viewers to appreciate the beauty and rarity of these precious materials in a fresh and innovative way.

As the exhibition continues to unfold, it serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and the endless possibilities that arise when different disciplines converge. The students' exploration of gemstones goes beyond their utilitarian function, revealing their profound cultural and symbolic significance. Through their artistic endeavors, they invite us to reevaluate our relationship with these natural wonders and appreciate their immense value in our lives.

In conclusion, the "LithoMania" exhibition at the Kunstgewerbemuseum in Berlin is a must-see for anyone interested in the world of design, gemstones, and the intricate interplay between art and culture. It offers a unique perspective on these precious materials, challenging our perceptions and inspiring us to appreciate their beauty and rarity in a new light.

Weight: 618g
Dimension: 240 x 160 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783897906600