Collab: Supporters of Modern & Contemporary Design

Connect with leading designers, hear about the newest trends first, and learn about the latest products and processes while you support the museum’s modern and contemporary design collection.

Since 1970, Collab has contributed outstanding examples of unique and mass-produced design objects to our collection, hosted design luminaries from five continents, and provided tours, lectures, and publications that make design accessible to the public.

Collab members engage with the world of design together through exclusive programming—virtually and in-person as health and safety guidelines permit—including the Collab Design Excellence Award and Collab Student Design Competition.

Curatorial oversight for Collab is provided by Kathryn B. Hiesinger, the J. Mahlon Buck, Jr. Family Senior Curator of European Decorative Arts after 1700.

Events

Keep an eye on your in-box for invitations to virtual events like these:

• DesignPhiladelphia
  The oldest festival of its kind in the United States, DesignPhiladelphia highlights the work of local designers, architects, and creative professionals. Collab members get an inside view with a special program usually hosted at the museum.
• Design Excellence Award Party
  Every year, Collab honors a designer of international renown with a celebration and exhibition at the museum. This signature event has brought design icons to Philadelphia since 1986. Please note that the 2020 event was canceled due to COVID-19.
• Student Design Competition
  What does the next generation imagine for the future of design? Every year, college-level industrial design students respond to a unique challenge that affects daily life. The best designs are showcased in the museum. Please note that the 2020 event was canceled due to COVID-19.
• Behind-the-Scenes Tours
  Enjoy virtual guided tours and demonstrations from the museum experts who care for objects in the design collection.
• Studio and Makerspace Visits
  Get an insider’s glimpse into the rise of Philadelphia’s maker community with virtual visits to the studios where great design is happening today.

View upcoming Collab events >>

Join Collab

Become a Collab member at the $125 level and support acquisitions, exhibitions, publications, and programs. Collab membership is available exclusively to museum members. To join or renew, first select your membership level and then check Collab under Enhancements.

Contact Us

For more information about Collab, please email .