Exotic objects have always held a fascination for Europeans who came in contact with ethnic groups from far-away lands. Over the centuries the treasure chambers of the rulers of the times were filled. However, articles were largely ignored that could not immediately be recognised as being the creation of an artist, especially such everyday items as drinking vessels or implements. Consistent, fundamental, radical: the designers of today draw inspiration from the anonymous creations when they are looking for primary solutions for a usability problem. New materials and tools create a different surface, another finish, a new vision.

The exhibition GLOBAL VILLAGE will juxtapose the original and the
modern, exotic examples and European design classics, pointing out the influence of anonymous designers from Africa, Asia, and Latin America on European modernity.