My visit to the Cooper-Hewitt design museum was slightly disappointing. I expected a lot more content in the vast mansion turned museum and found a lot of wasted space, small cramped rooms, and poorly displayed objects. Of course, I am a museum snob so the fact that I found the building itself more inspirational than the exhibits is not a suprise. I have unreasonably high expectations for museums.
     I am delighted that such a museum even exists. I realize that budget constraints combined with the use of a historical building that cannot be altered much, provides a real challenge. It is only my dream that all museums be staffed and funded by creative people with phenomenal imaginations and unlimited funds that can design a space that engages me it's mission in every corner and crevice of it's canvas. A ridiculous request...or dream or wish, I know. 
     As I meandered through the museum I came upon one particular exhibit that inspired me to step outside my own little box and actually take a picture at a museum. A huge no-no in my book regardless of whether it is permitted or not. It's just so much sacrilege to me. I can't help this. It is the archaeologist/anthropologist/curator in me. The care and preservation of objects and information is an almost spiritual pursuit for those that endeavor and so I am solemn in my respect for their efforts even while I am unrestrained in my criticism.
     So I am a hippocrite, breaking my own rules and simply having to capture and share these photos.
For details about this fabulous, sustainable design by Isaac Mizrahi, please read the Time Out New York article, and enjoy my lo res, flashless, camera photos.