Women in Contemporary Design
LOOKING THROUGH OBJECTS: WOMEN IN CONTEMPORARY POLISH DESIGN
Design Museum Brussels is currently hosting an exhibition, “Looking Through Objects: Women in Contemporary Polish Design”. This traveling showcase celebrates the work of 16 Polish women designers, shining a spotlight on their creativity and contributions to contemporary design. From sleek product prototypes to one-of-a-kind artistic pieces, the exhibition “explores the impact of 16 female Polish designers through their creations, showcasing diverse approaches from industrial production to artistic research” . In other words, visitors will discover a wide spectrum of design objects – ranging from everyday functional items to experimental works of art – each reflecting personal stories and broader societal shifts. As part of the exhibition, you’ll also encounter works of RUIMTE's remarkable designers - Malwina Konopacka and Pani Jurek, each bringing their own artistic voice to the world of contemporary design.
“Looking Through Objects” is more than a display of beautiful things; it’s a story of modern Polish design told through the lens of women creators . Curated by an international team – Agnieszka Jacobson-Cielecka, Gian Luca Amadei, and Dario Lombardi – the selection of objects offers insight into how Poland’s design scene has transformed in recent years and the pivotal role women have played in that evolution . Each designer’s work is accompanied by her own words and behind-the-scenes glimpses of her studio, inviting visitors into a personal dialogue with the creative process. Through these intimate details, the exhibition reveals “a spectrum of creative approaches – where art, craft, and technology intertwine, and the boundaries between them blur” . You might see handcrafted ceramics dialoguing with industrial design, or textiles infused with technology, all under the same roof. This rich variety shows how contemporary design isn’t confined to one category – it’s an interconnected practice blending innovation with craftsmanship.
A central theme of the exhibition is the evolving role of women in design, and how their perspectives are shaping the future of the field. Design, like any art form, reflects the times. Over the past decade, the focus in design has shifted away from flashy, short-lived trends toward more thoughtful, sustainable, and holistic approaches . Notably, women designers have been a driving force behind this transformation . The featured Polish creators wear many hats – they are makers, artists, problem-solvers, and innovators. Their works highlight how today’s design is often about solving real-world problems and “shaping mindful and holistic processes, moving beyond past trends of fleeting spectacle to emphasize lasting impact and innovation” . In showcasing these projects, “Looking Through Objects” reflects a broader cultural shift: women are no longer on the sidelines of design; they are at its forefront, leading with creativity and purpose.
Another remarkable aspect of Looking Through Objects is its international journey and context. Brussels is the third stop on this exhibition’s European tour , following previous editions in other countries. Each edition brings something new – in the Brussels show, for example, a few fresh voices join the lineup, adding new perspectives from fields like textile and ceramics. The exhibition is presented as part of Poland’s EU Council Presidency cultural programme, underscoring its significance on a European stage .
Mark your calendars: Looking Through Objects: Women in Contemporary Polish Design runs from May 9 to September 28, 2025 at the Design Museum Brussels.
Agata