Did you know that this museum started with two sisters? Welcome to the Goldstein Museum of Design. This isn’t just any museum. It’s a testament to the enduring impact of Harriet and Vetta Goldstein. These remarkable women were teachers at the University of Minnesota. They taught generations of students about design. They believed good design improved lives.
The Goldstein Museum of Design opened in 1976. It’s located in McNeal Hall on the St Paul campus. It’s the only museum in the Upper Midwest specializing in designed objects. Their incredible collection boasts around 34000 items. This includes an impressive 21000 costume and fashion accessories.
Imagine the sisters’ journeys. They traveled the world. They collected fascinating objects. These objects demonstrated good and bad design principles. Harriet even documented a world tour in a self-published journal. Their textbook Art in Every Day Life became a standard. It was even translated into Chinese.
The museum’s collection is more than just pretty things. It’s a teaching tool. Students faculty and the public can explore it. Much of the collection came from donations. Many of these donations came from Minnesota residents. About 20% of the collection is available online.
The Goldstein sisters’ legacy extends beyond their textbook. Their passion for good design lives on. The museum continues to host exhibitions. These exhibitions showcase diverse design areas. The exhibitions cover fashion textiles and graphic design. The museum even holds haute couture pieces from iconic designers. Think Christian Dior Elsa Schiaparelli Coco Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent.
This museum is a treasure. It’s a vibrant hub for design enthusiasts. It’s a celebration of the Goldstein sisters’ vision. It’s a place where the past informs the future. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in design. So take your time explore the collection and let the stories of these objects inspire you.