Someone has designed most, if not all, of the objects that we use in our daily lives. These seemingly simple objects have a huge impact on the way we live and interact with the world around us. If they work well, chances are we don’t pay much attention to them, but we know fairly quickly when an object fails to meet our expectations. These everyday marvels are considered remarkable for their usefulness, affordability, and conceptual innovation.
To explore more, click on each artwork thumbnail, then click again on the larger image that appears in the box above.
Questions & Activities
“Humble Masterpieces” in MoMA’s Collection
Research some of the objects that were included in MoMA’s 2004 exhibition Humble Masterpieces, which included objects such as LEGOS, chopsticks, and bubble wrap.
Look around your home at some of the objects that you use every day. Select one that you think is an everyday marvel and research it.
Consider the following questions: What is it made of? What is special about it? When was it invented and by whom? What problem does it solve?
Curate: Include your object in an exhibition and write a wall label for your object.
Sweet Inspiration
Explore the page about M&Ms candies.
Imagine you are tasked with inventing a new candy product. What flavors would you make it? What would it look like? How would it be packaged?
Make a poster advertising the new candy including a slogan or tagline.
