From blue jeans and surfboards to cosmetics and corporate logos, twelve everyday objects are recast as icons — single, physical forms that embody a complex universe of associations — and explored as benchmarks for the current state of design. Organized by SFMOMA Curator of Architecture and Design Aaron Betsky, Icons: Magnets of Meaning assembles nearly three hundred design objects, photographs, drawings, prints, and videotapes, and also includes works commissioned especially for the exhibition.
Organized by SFMOMA and made possible with major sponsorship from BankAmerica Foundation. Additional generous support provided by Mimi and Peter Haas, and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Schwab. Promotional support provided by Levi Strauss & Co., Macy’s, and Williams-Sonoma.