Superficial design

Rotterdam – A new exhibition examines the role of exterior textures and finishes in design.

• Designing the Surface is part of the Het Nieuwe Instituut’s The Things and The Materials programme
• The exhibition is curated by product designer Chris Kabel and graphic design duo Toon Koehorst and Jannetje In ‘t Veld

Designing the Surface, which opens on 26 January 2017, is divided into five categories – Patina, Lustre, Faux, Agency and Teflon – that highlight types of man-made and naturally occurring surface finishes, and examine their cultural significance.

‘We are especially interested in the coatings used to achieve a certain effect; the finishing layer intended to cover something or make it more beautiful or attractive,’ says Koehorst. ‘You can use it to seduce, but also to disguise.’

The Faux section explores how notions of authenticity have evolved over time, and highlights the value of mimicry as an art form, as craftsmen historically sought to imitate marble and rare tropical wood finishes on regular pine and poplar panels.