Bridging Minds

Positive and optimistic

Design makes our daily lives better, but also contributes to tackling major social issues. Climate change, social inequality and emerging technologies: designers work on the challenges of our time with optimism and positive input. Van der Lubbe: 'In choosing the works, I took action perspective as my starting point; designs and artworks that not only reflect but really contribute to something. This makes Bridging Minds an exhibition that shows how design actively helps shape the future.' Besides the forward momentum of design, the Van Abbemuseum's region also plays a role in the selection process: 'Eindhoven is the design capital of the Netherlands. A geographical focal point where technology, design and knowledge come together.'

Ten rooms, ten themes

Bridging Minds spreads across the ten rooms of the Old Building of the Van Abbemuseum. Each room shows with a different theme what design means for users and society. For instance, there is a space about feeling safe. With a small gesture or powerful signal: designers such as Jalila Essaïdi and Bas Timmer reflect on what it takes to be able to protect yourself and each other. The next room focuses on the relationship between humans and technology. From simple mechanisms to advanced AI, makers such as László Moholy-Nagy and Ricky van Broekhoven create inspiring experiences with technology. In another space, work by Alissa+Nienke and Dan Graham, among others, pays attention to care and well-being. Think smart tools, unusual materials or soothing forms. The other seven rooms deal with connection, inclusion, empowerment, innovation, nature, raw materials and freedom.

About Miriam van der Lubbe

Miriam van der Lubbe (born 1972) is one of the most influential voices in the Dutch design world. She studied at the Design Academy Eindhoven, the Sandberg Institute in Amsterdam and the University of Art and Design in Helsinki. As co-founder of design studio Van Eijk & Van der Lubbe, she built a multifaceted career ranging from product design to strategic spatial concepts. Her work is characterised by a powerful combination of aesthetics, social relevance and storytelling. Eindhoven plays a crucial role in Van der Lubbe's career: she is a co-founder of Dutch Design Week and, as Creative Head since 2022, gives substantive direction to this leading festival.