Déjà-vu: 300 design objects from 1920s to 2000s at MAMC+ Saint-Étienne

The Musée d’Art Moderne et Contemporain de Saint-Étienne (MAMC+) presents Déjà-vu. Le design dans notre quotidien, an exhibition of 300 design objects from the 1920s to the 2000s, predominantly French. Curated by Imke Plinta, the show draws from the museum’s design collection—the second largest in France after the Centre Pompidou—and emphasizes everyday objects rather than artistic exceptionalism. Plinta was appointed by MAMC+ director Aurélie Voltz to valorize the collection, which includes furniture, household items, and graphic design. The exhibition explores French modernism, the post-war Trente Glorieuses (1945–1975), and the rise of consumer culture, featuring pieces from groups like ARP (Atelier de Recherche Plastique) and brands such as Manufrance and Prisunic. The final section, organized with designer Nathalie Bruyère, offers participatory workshops on prototyping and new materials. Saint-Étienne is France’s only UNESCO Creative City for design. The show runs until August 22, 2021.