The South's Next Wave, MODA's Done It Again!

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
"Fashion in Captivity"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

I asked Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) Executive Director Brenda Galina, "How are you going to top this exhibition?" With a smile on her face, she assured me that that's what they do, that's what they must do.

Brenda's determination and tenacity to put MODA on the map (which based on attendance at the MODA events I've attended, she's done) is part of what I love about her. And The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge is truly remarkable...exquisite even!

I became a MODA member on my very first visit, back before they moved to 1315 Peachtree Street, across from the High Museum of Art (previously they were in the Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta). That move alone is a mark of Brenda's brilliance.

I find that I not only look forward to each new exhibition, I look forward to seeing each current exhibit on multiple occasions, a practice that's been consistent since first discovering MODA.

So, The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge is truly remarkable. Here's the skinny: it's part exhibition and part challenge. The Museum is FILLED with vignettes created by Southern interior and set designers (with fashion and jewelry designers, photographers, sculptors...the list goes on).

Each vignette is a team project, mostly duos, but teams of varying number. I had the pleasure of meeting several of the artists—all nervous and excited to be presenting their work to Atlanta's culture seekers.

Here are a few of the nearly 400 photos I made on my first visit to see Next Wave...but none are of an entire vignette—those I'll leave at the Museum for you to explore on your own (you'll be glad you did!).

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

The above chandelier was created by Christopher Moulder and features "161 separately hung Habotai silk and Swarovski crystal 'spears'," titled "Barbounia"; its a kinetic piece...it moves (and sparkles) with the slightest movement.

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

This vignette, "Choreography", is remarkably harmonious, so I was surprised to learn that it was created by three different artists. I had the honor of meeting photographer Thom Baker (who turned out to be a friend of a friend) and sculptor Mike Sluder. 

Both were very engaging and I'm convinced are brilliant artists. We also discussed the importance of public relations with regard to success and popularity...part of the reason they were there the evening I met them. I foresee great things from these gentlemen.

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

This vignette, "Heart of Darkness", was an immediate favorite of mine...that they added dry ice for the opening night celebration didn't hurt (Who doesn't love special effects, right?). I met briefly one of the principals of this team effort. Be sure to read the profile in the brochure when you visit...some interesting information there.

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

This is another shot of "Heart of Darkness", which in-part features the artistry of handbags. They brilliantly display the bags, not in a retail fashion, but totally as art.

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

This vignette, "Darkly, Deeply, Beautiful Blue", mesmerizes one to the point that you'll very likely need to pop into your camera another memory card or end up learning that the Museum is about to close. There's a LOT going on here, but even in its sonorous blue, it's incredibly well balanced...and it's just plain fun.

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

Some of the vignettes are more simple in design but full on the artistry that went into them. This one, "Energy Required", is particularly thought-provoking. You'll see what I mean when you see the entire vignette.

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

Having lived in Europe and having visited the Faberge gallery at the Kremlin in Moscow, I've seen some stunning jewelry design. I find myself fascinated by it...especially the highly designed pieces. This vignette, "Tutti Frutti", is beautifully crafted and has lots to see!

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

I had the honor of meeting one of the two artists of this vignette: "Wicked Games: Tahiti, Return of the Black Prince's Ruby (The Diamond Jubilee Edition)". Nancy VanDevender, the artist who created the game board-inspired wall paper, was such a delightful person with whom to converse...and under that demure, unassuming personality is a brilliant artist!

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

Some of the vignettes defy description...but sometimes a photograph really does speak a thousand words. I love the imagination-launching power of this vignette, "A midsummer Night's Dream"...it was very well thought out and well executed. The story behind the design is quite heart-warming.

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

This one is "Iron Man and the Concrete Blonde". There's more to this one and it's all about imagination...enough said!

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

You can't talk about the artistry of design and not include music...that would just be wrong. While I'm more of a movie buff than a music fan—and don't get me wrong, I love music, I love concerts, I love all things music—this vignette, "Sound Lounge", really 'spoke' to me. The varying elements within are unique on their own, but together tell a powerful story.

"The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

Visitors to Next Wave are greeted by this beauty, "Shattered Boundaries", created by the curators of the exhibition, David Goodrowe and Tim Hobby of Goodrowe | Hobby. She's quite striking and you can't help but wonder what's on her mind...and it could go in a bazillion different directions!

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention my other buddies at MODA. Associate Director Laura Flusche and Volunteer Manager & Programming Assistant Katie Simms both make me feel so welcome every time they see me and the friends I bring to the Museum. The entire staff and the host of volunteers all are quite friendly and welcoming. 

In sharing with Brenda the other day just how much I love this museum, I thanked her for making me feel "at home" and for making me feel like a part of MODA's extended family. I have a suspicion that they make many of their members feel that way.

So...now you've seen a snippet of "The South's Next Wave: Design Challenge"...don't you want to go see the exhibition in its entirety? Remember, there's lots of programming coupled with every exhibition, so "Like" MODA on Facebook and sign up for email announcements so you're sure not to miss something you'd love to attend.

After you have MODA on your calendar, hop over to the wanderlust Atlanta Facebook Page and have a look around. There's so much to see and do in Atlanta!

Thanks for stopping by!