Prof. Günter Horntrich, Design
June 14 marks the opening of Werft 11 Gallery’s exhibition on Günter Horntrich. The exhibition gives a glimpse into the designer’s thinking about objects and their effects. The collection contains many of Horntrich’s favourite works.
The inspiration Horntrich takes from the objects that surround him may seem random when viewed individually. But over the course of time the collection that emerges tells its own story. Horntrich uses a spatial installation to explain his thought process with the everyday objects that have long accompanied him.
Often, it’s the most valuable designs that become classics. Value is measured by properties that forge a relationship to the object’s user – properties such as quality, use, effect, and sustainability. Those who think ecological products are made only of wood, cork, or wool miss something important, for ecology is not decided by choice of material alone. It’s also about lifespan, functionality, and practicality.
The exhibition allows visitors to experience the constants in Horntrich’s output. For all his development, certain structures, principles, and objects have persisted. These are always the simple things, the obvious things – the classics, if you will.
Günter Horntrich has been Professor of Design and Ecology at the Köln International School of Design (KISD) since 1992.
He lives and works in Cologne.
Opening
Thursday 14 June 2012 at 19:00
Introduction: Prof. Dr. Michael Erlhoff
