Retrospective Renate Müller
Renate Müller's works lie at the intersection of toys, art and design. Her international reputation is shaped in particular by her so-called Rupfentiere (jute animals), which are based on artistic design and are still used today in educational, therapeutic and medical contexts. Beyond the context of design, her works have been exhibited worldwide, including at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Art Basel in Switzerland and in numerous countries in Europe, Asia and North America.
Between Toys, Art and Design
In addition to the iconic jute animals, the retrospective showcases works from the fields of 'Art in Architecture' and 'Urban and Playground Design', as well as the design of children's environments in childcare facilities. The exhibition also explores family and company history, education and studies, and the sustainable development of a brand that transforms therapeutic toys into timeless design objects. Müller's work is influenced by Friedrich Fröbel's teachings on early childhood education, the Bauhaus philosophy, and regional Thuringian traditions.
Mediation, workshop and sensory approaches
Soundscapes as well as photo and film stations accompany the exhibition and provide insights into the design workshop and the designer's comprehensive oeuvre. The programme includes lectures and guided tours as well as the revitalisation of the workshop by Renate Müller herself. Several workshops are aimed at different age groups and invite visitors to engage in their own creative exploration. The exhibition was curated by Christine Spiller and Renate Müller herself.
