Overview
The Muji Made exhibition showcased new interpretations of classic Muji products. Curated by art director Marsha Golemac and designer Colby Vexler, the event featured the work of seven Australian architects and designers. Located within the Gertrude Glasshouse gallery in Collingwood, the exhibition ran for three days as part of Melbourne Design Week. The central theme of the exhibition was the transformation and re-imagining of everyday objects, framed within a celebration of what the event designated as "quiet beauty."
Research Context
The exhibition was initiated by the Japanese lifestyle brand Muji. It focused on engaging external designers to interact with its established product lines. The context involved inviting specific professionals—seven Australian architects and designers—to provide a fresh perspective through their reinterpretations. This initiative positioned Muji's products as a basis for creative, functional, and aesthetic re-evaluation rather than as static consumer goods. The selection of Melbourne Design Week as the timing and Gertrude Glasshouse gallery as the venue further contextualized the event within a broader design discourse and an established art space.
Approach
The approach for Muji Made involved a structured curation process led by Marsha Golemac and Colby Vexler. They invited a specific group of professionals, identified as seven Australian architects and designers, to participate. The core task given to these participants was to "reimagine the use" of Muji's classic products. This suggests a design-led methodology where existing products served as foundational elements for new, creative applications. The event's duration was set at three days, and its physical manifestation was an exhibition within a gallery setting, specifically Gertrude Glasshouse in Collingwood.
Findings
The exhibition presented new interpretations by seven Australian architects and designers. These interpretations focused on reimagining the use of Muji's classic products. The event was held within Gertrude Glasshouse gallery in Collingwood. The exhibition was named Muji Made. It took place over three days. The curation was handled by art director Marsha Golemac and designer Colby Vexler. The event was part of Melbourne Design Week. A stated celebration of "quiet beauty" and the transformation of everyday objects characterized the exhibition's theme.