What is craft? The term “craft” usually refers to a series of learned actions and techniques, ideally carried out manually or with a manually operated tool; less commonly, machines are used. In this context, handcrafted production is based on traditional craft techniques and usually follows a fixed sequence of procedures. Craftspeople often develop individual solutions or produce a limited number of items. For this reason, “craftsmanship” is also considered a hallmark of quality. In addition, the term can refer to a profession or an economic sector. But what does craft as myth mean?

The exhibition focuses on craft and the tension between the ideal and the real life. Like a grid, the question of myth runs through the entire exhibition. Tradition, integrity, simplicity – craftsmanship was and is often associated with such universal values. Which of these attributions are still relevant today and which are newly emerging? Craft as Myth. Between Ideal and Real Life questions common notions and debunks both romanticizations and ideologies, revealing the feelings and affects, ideas and desires that are transported to the individual and society in connection with handcrafted objects. In the exhibition, numerous contemporary debates and the social dimension of design are highlighted and newly inspired. A wide range of objects, films, images, photographs and artworks are included in the exhibition.
The exhibition is accompanied by a comprehensive catalog which will be availabale to buy at the price of 24 euros at the Museum shop.

The exhibition was developed in cooperation with the Kunstgewerbemuseum der Staatlichen Kunstsammlungen Dresden and the vorarlberg museum in Bregenz.

Press release

Press Conference 27 April 2022

Live recording of the press conference Craft as Myth. Between Ideal and real Life

With the speakers:

Natali Lina-Pitzer
Head of Press and Public Relations
Museum Angewandte Kunst

Prof. Matthias Wagner K
Director
Museum Angewandte Kunst

Dr. Julia Cloot
Deputy Chairwoman Kulturfonds Frankfurt RheinMain

Grit Weber
Curator of the exhibition Museum Angewandte Kunst