Goldstein launches Digital Database Project

[Originally posted at the651.com]


Situated on the St. Paul campus of the University of Minnesota, the Goldstein Museum of Design is like our very own mini-MOMA right in our backyard. Unfortunately, few of us have been lucky enough to take a peek inside the Goldstein's 26,000-strong collection of designer garments running the span of the 20th century. But now, thanks to a grant it recently received, the Goldstein is currently in the process of creating a digital database of its vast collection of clothing, shoes, hats and accessories, thanks to a grant it recently received from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Eventually to be made viewable in an online database, it's part of a measure to increase access to the collections to the public, and increase the use of the collection as a research tool. "This new database will transform the way students, staff, and volunteers interact with the collection, improving the quality and efficiency of GMD's service and dramatically increasing the number of people who benefit by this resource," said Lin Nelson-Mayson, Goldstein director in a press release about the project.

So far, they've posted some preview images at their facebook page and the Goldstein website, and items range from flowered rayon chiffon afternoon dress from the late 1930s, a Repousse art nouveau vanity case from 1925, and brown leather riding boots from the 1950s.

The museum itself also have some items from the project on display as well as large-scale prints of some of the photographs.


While you're there, check out these upcoming exhibits:

"Off the Top of My Head: Hat Habitats"
This exhibition features the work of artists Cynthia Rapacz and Ryan Haro, exhibiting a melange of artistry including photography, design, fashion and architecture that become fanciful vignettes of the life of the hat.
Opening reception 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, June 4; ongoing through September 3.

"Flights of Fancy: Feathers in Fashion"
Flights of Fancy is a colorful and thought-provoking exhibition that explores the historical and contemporary use of feathers in western fashion. Visitors will be invited to examine the function of feathers in nature, the historical feather trade and activism against it, and the psychological appeal of wearing feathers. Feathered apparel from the late 19th through the 20th centuries from the GMD collection will be on exhibit including garments designed by Bill Blass, Sonia Rykiel, Victor Costa, and Oscar de la Renta. The opening reception will feature curator talks, a live-bird display and talk from the UMN Raptor center, and food & drinks. Please join us!
opening reception 6-8 p.m. Friday, June 11; ongoing through September 8. Visit goldstein.che.umn.edu for more info.

The Goldstein is located at 241 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Ave., St. Paul, 612-624-7434.

[Images courtesy of Goldstein Museum of Design]