How did the Goldstein Collection Begin?

Founded in 1976, the Goldstein Museum of Design is based on the collection of Harriet and Vetta Goldstein, professors in the University's Design Department from 1910 to the late 1940s, and their philosophy that well-designed objects enhance the quality of daily life. The Goldstein is the only dedicated museum of design in the country located in a design college.

What is in the Collection?

The collection contains approximately 27,000 designed objects -- costumes, textiles, decorative art, and graphic design. Highlights include:

COSTUME (18,000 items) -- 19th and 20th century clothing designer fashion to street dress

TEXTILES (6,000 items) -- 18th century French brocade silk to modern Mexican and Nigerian fabric

DECORATIVE ARTS (2,000 items) -- Ceramic, metal, glass, stone, basketry, and furniture

GRAPHIC DESIGN (200 items) -- Complete sets of Émigré, Octavo, and Soul Design

How does the Goldstein Build its Collection?

Some items were donated directly by designers who added information about the origins of the design; others came from area residents or alumni who provided stories about the life it led before the museum. Occasionally, objects are purchased.

Where Is It?

The museum and its collection are located in McNeal Hall. To make an appointment to study objects from the collection or to discuss a possible donation, call 612-625-2737 or e-mail goldstein@umn.edu.