The Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) is currently hosting the exhibition “Designing Motherhood: Things That Make and Break Our Births,” which showcases a wide array of items related to reproductive health and childrearing. From menstrual cups to baby bottles, the exhibition features over 250 objects that highlight the role of design in shaping experiences of parenthood.
This traveling exhibition, which began in 2021, is a collaborative project by Designing Motherhood aimed at raising awareness about the journey of human reproduction. The show has evolved over time, incorporating elements from local cultures and institutions to create a unique experience for each venue. In its latest iteration at MAD, the exhibition includes a new section dedicated to product design, reflecting New York City’s history as a design hub and catering to the needs of city-dwelling parents.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is a display of “baby boxes,” kits filled with essential supplies for newborns and caregivers. These boxes, including the Finnish Äitiyspakkaus and the NYC Baby Box, offer a glimpse into different approaches to supporting new parents. The exhibition also explores topics such as menstruation, conception, pregnancy, community care, and baby gear, shedding light on the challenges faced by parents and caregivers.
Visitors to the exhibition are encouraged to engage with the displays through a gallery guide that provides historical context and information about the inventors behind the products. By showcasing a diverse range of objects, from a 19th-century breast pump to modern-day baby gear, “Designing Motherhood” aims to spark conversations about reproductive health and challenge societal taboos.
The exhibition also delves into the history of design in improving lives, as well as its shortcomings. Displays of outdated products, such as a “portable baby cage,” serve as a reminder of the importance of safety regulations and product recalls. In a time of uncertainty surrounding healthcare access, “Designing Motherhood” offers a message of empowerment, highlighting the role of design in addressing social issues and improving quality of life.
“Designing Motherhood: Things That Make and Break Our Births” will be on display at the Museum of Arts and Design until March 15, 2026. The exhibition is organized by a team of curators and designers dedicated to exploring the intersection of design and parenthood.
