MoMA Mart Transforms Groceries into Stunning Design Objects
The relationship between food and design has inspired countless artists and designers over the years. In a modern twist on this longstanding connection, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) has launched a unique pop-up concept called MoMA Mart. This initiative is currently available at its two Design Store locations in Midtown and SoHo and will run until March 29.
MoMA Mart: A Fusion of Art and Grocery Design
MoMA Mart features an array of grocery items that, while familiar in form, are anything but edible. Highlighting the playful nature of design, the selection includes:
- Jars of fake peanut butter
- Punnets of inedible heirloom tomatoes
- Bear-shaped squeezy bottles that contain no honey
- Cartons designed to look like milk
This curated assortment pushes the boundaries of how everyday objects are perceived. Emmanuel Plat, MoMA’s director of merchandising, stated, “Food has always been a powerful cultural force, and designers are embracing it in fresh, imaginative ways.” He further emphasized that MoMA Mart celebrates the intersection of art and humor.
The Influence of Pop Art
MoMA Mart draws inspiration from the Pop Art movement and notable artists, including Claes Oldenburg and Ed Ruscha. The exhibits reflect a cultural dialogue that merges contemporary visual culture with early 20th-century modernism.
Unique Design Offerings
A selection of innovative items is available for visitors, including:
- A glass tomato table lamp by L’expressionist
- A tinned fish trinket box from Solar Eclipse
- A baguette-shaped umbrella designed by Kikkerland
- Condiment jar timers by Balvi
- An orange juice ceramic vase by Jeremy Duchiron
- A gold-plated green apple necklace by Andrés Gallardo
- Adorable plush items from Jelly Cat
Each product invites customers to reconsider their relationship with everyday objects while supporting the museum’s programming.
A Cultural Experience
MoMA Mart transcends the typical gift shop experience. It provides a culturally relevant walk-in exhibition that infuses humor into a mundane shopping atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate and explore the artistic qualities of faux food design.
For those interested, the full faux-food collection can be explored at MoMA Design Store locations in Midtown and SoHo, with additional options available online at store.moma.org.
