Kho Liang Ie: A Mid-Century Modernist Design Retrospective at Stedelijk Museum

This is the first major museum retrospective in over fifty years dedicated to Kho Liang Ie, a pivotal figure in Dutch design from the 1950s to the mid-1970s. The exhibition explores his poetic and playful functionalist designs, unconventional material use, and significant contributions to furniture, interiors, and graphic design.

The Stedelijk Museum presents 'Kho Liang Ie – Mid-Century Modernist,' the first comprehensive museum retrospective of Kho Liang Ie's work in over five decades. Active from the 1950s to the mid-1970s, Kho was instrumental in shaping Dutch design through his furniture and interior designs, characterized by a poetic sensibility, unconventional material choices, and a playful take on functionalism. His influence extended to fostering international networks and introducing new design talent to the Netherlands. The exhibition features over 200 objects, extensive visual material, and a spatial design by Strijkers Studio, including a presentation of part of the Schiphol Airport interior and a reconstruction of his 1971 Stedelijk exhibition. It also highlights his collaborations with notable designers and artists such as Pierre Paulin, Geoffrey Harcourt, Sheila Hicks, Ettore Sottsass, and Niki de Saint Phalle, showcasing his broad artistic connections and the art collection he amassed. Born in Indonesia in 1927, Kho Liang Ie moved to the Netherlands in 1949 to study interior architecture. Even as a student, he achieved recognition, with his designs featured in prestigious publications like 'Goed Wonen.' He worked for the Goed Wonen foundation and collaborated with Wim Crouwel on exhibition designs before focusing on furniture design, winning an international competition in 1957. His career included significant work for companies like Bruynzeel, Mosa, CAR, and Artifort, where he served as an 'aesthetic consultant.' Kho's visionary approach contributed to modern concepts like open-plan offices and modular furnishings. A major commission was the design for the Schiphol Airport terminal building in 1967, noted for its thoughtful passenger experience and characteristic way-finding system. The exhibition delves into all facets of his oeuvre, reflecting his vital role in the landscape of post-war design.

Visitors can book tickets via the provided link on the Stedelijk Museum website. Admission details are typically part of the general museum entry policy.