The Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum is the only American museum dedicated to historical and modern design. The institution's motto is "Design for Life," which is why, according to visitors, some of the most interesting exhibitions are organized here. The collected collection reflects the development of design over the course of 240 years.
History of creation
The Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum opened in 1897, it belongs to the facilities of the famous Smithsonian Institution museums. The institution got its name from sisters Sarah and Eleanor Cooper-Hewitt, who traveled extensively in Europe and were inspired by the art of different countries. Upon their return to the United States, they were determined to create a museum in their homeland so that students and designers could explore the world of modern art, and residents of the United States could find inspiration here. The sisters were helped in this matter by Amelia Hewitt Green, who donated a collection of lace at the beginning of the museum, which received visitors three times a week for free.
Museum development
All 3 Cooper-Hewitt sisters were directors of the institution, then Edwin Burdell took over the post. In 1963, the Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum closed, but later a committee was convened whose mission was to preserve cultural heritage. Four years later, an agreement was signed to transfer the collection to the Smithsonian Institution, and the museum officially became the property of the institute. In 1970, the attraction opened in the Andrew Carnegie Mansion. The building, which was donated to the art by a multimillionaire, has been renovated several times, and for many years it has met all the necessary requirements to receive visitors. The institution has had its current name since 2014, with the original name being Cooper Union Museum.
Short description
The Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum exhibits objects reflecting architectural features, paintings, sculptures, costumes, and musical instruments from different eras. You can see the chair on which the XVI President of the USA Abraham Lincoln sat, furniture made according to the sketches of architects, designers, artists Peter Behrens, Christopher Dresser, Hector Gimor, Charles Eames.
The Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum draws a lot of attention to the collection created from white marble by designer Joe Duckett, where tables are connected by gravity. It is known that in 1978, John Lennon, along with his wife Yoko Ono, transferred the Rolls-Royce museum, which belonged to The Beatles. In 1985, the car was sold at auction for more than $ 2 million.
Every 3 years, the All-American Design Triennial is held in this place, where the best works of designers are presented. Unlike other Smithsonian Institution museums, admission to Cooper Hewitt is paid, but admission is free for children under 12, and students and seniors receive a discount.
How to get
The Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum is located on the Upper East Side of New York City's "museum Mile." Buses No M1, M2, M3, M4 are suitable. If you take the metro, you need to take the 4,5 and 6 train. There are private parking lots near the museum where you can park your rented car. Alternatively, you can order a taxi.
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