behind the curtains: david altrath captures blue-hued atmosphere at groningen museum

david altrath photographs porcelain exhibition in groningen

David Altrath, known for his architectural photography, shifts focus momentarily to explore a new exhibition at the Groninger Museum in the Netherlands. In this project, he delves into the mesmerizing design that harmonizes with the porcelain pieces from Porzellan Manufaktur Nymphenburg of Munich. Delicate curtains adorn the interior, casting soft white and yellow light that creates a serene blue-hued atmosphere, enveloping the intricate exhibits. 

Porzellan Manufaktur Nymphenburg’s Legacy in Collaboration with Groninger Museum

Combining art, design, and craftsmanship, Porzellan Manufaktur Nymphenburg of Munich (find more here) has been creating exquisite porcelain since the mid-18th century, renowned for its purity of form and entirely handmade process. In collaboration with expert John Veldkamp, guest curator of Pronkjewails, the Groninger Museum (find more here) presents the house’s magnificent creations alongside pieces from its own collection, fostering a compelling dialogue between past and present artistic endeavors. The exhibition is meticulously designed with curtains, concealing the porcelain from initial view and adding an elegant ambiance to the overall presentation.

Photographed by David Altrath (find more here) on film using a Kodak Vision 3 500T, the result presents a mesmerizing grainy effect that enhances the atmosphere. The semi-transparent curtains and the lighting of the setting create an aura of mysticism, inviting viewers to explore the environment and discover the porcelain pieces on their own. The curtains curve and form clusters, organizing the exhibits for a cohesive and comprehensive presentation of the show.

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project info: 

name: Behind the Curtain
location: Groningen Museum, Netherlands
photography: David Altrath | @davidaltrath