Design and arts and crafts: 150 years of the Grassi Museum

The Grassi Museum of Applied Arts in Leipzig is celebrating its 150th birthday this year and showcases the many facets of the development of arts and crafts. "The museum is an enrichment for the cultural landscape," said Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer (CDU) at the ceremony on Friday. Minister of State for Culture Claudia Roth (Greens) had to cancel her visit at short notice.

Visitors can also celebrate the anniversary this weekend. There will be short tours of the exhibitions, music and a poetry slam. In addition, interactive time stations will provide insights into particularly important stages in the development of art and craftsmanship. Children can try their hand at stone carving, blacksmithing, glass blowing or pottery. Admission to all activities is free.

There are numerous special exhibitions throughout the year. For example, theater star Robert Wilson presents a theatrical exhibition with designer chairs and artists explore the question of what role design can play in the various forms of the future.

The Grassi Museum, which opened in 1874, is one of Europe's leading museums of design and applied arts. It presents changing exhibitions on arts and crafts, design, photography and architecture. According to museum director Olaf Thormann, the museum has always stood out for its close connection to contemporary art.