Swiss Design Classics
Production and curation of the most comprehensive exhibition of Swiss design in China, Swiss Design Classics. The exhibition was created in collaboration with local and international partners, including Salzmann Gertsch and Yilin Zhang. Currently on display at the Today Art Museum in Beijing across nearly 1,000 square meters, Swiss Design Classics will later travel to other major Chinese cities. Numerous Swiss design icons are being presented in China for the first time.
© Embassy of Switzerland in China.
The Swiss Design Classics exhibition is a milestone in cultural exchange between Switzerland and China, celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Curated by Christian Herren, it showcases more than 150 original design objects spanning 400 years, making it the most extensive Swiss design exhibition ever shown in China. Highlights include the vibrant red wall cabinet by Trix and Robert Haussmann, which humorously challenges traditional design concepts.
The exhibition is divided into six thematic chapters: iconic furniture, groundbreaking innovations, Swiss tourism posters, 400 years of stools, a special exhibition on Max Bill, and The Most Beautiful Swiss Books.
The exhibition not only provides insight into the history of Swiss design but also fosters cultural dialogue. Contributions by Laure Gremion and Catherine De Wolf demonstrate how creative exchanges between Swiss and Chinese designers inspire innovative and sustainable design solutions. Swiss Design Classics will be on view at the Today Art Museum in Beijing until January 12, 2025, before traveling to other major Chinese cities.
We extend our gratitude to our sponsors and key partners, especially the Swiss Embassy in China. Special thanks go to Juri Mischler, the initiator of the project, as well as Tahani Pestalozzi and Congcong Che. We also thank all participating designers, lenders, and key partners: the Federal Office for Buildings and Logistics, USM, Switzerland Tourism, and the Museum für Gestaltung, which provided iconic tourism posters for the exhibition. The traveling exhibition Swiss Design Classics was initiated and significantly supported by the Swiss Embassy in China in celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and China in 2025.
© Embassy of Switzerland in China.