2 Min Lesezeit

Denmark has a rich yet little-known tradition of textile printing. The Designmuseum Danmark in Copenhagen is now highlighting this heritage in an impressive exhibition. From 22 May 2025, the exhibition ‘The Power of Print – Danish Textile Prints Through 100 Years‘ will showcase historical and contemporary pieces by Danish textile printers.

*TRYKKRAFT | Photo: Designmuseum Danmark*

Fabrics are more than just a pretty picture – they reflect cultural trends, technical mastery and artistic identity. Anyone who thinks otherwise is in for a surprise. Textile printing forms the visual memory of these developments. The exhibition “The Power of Print” at the Designmuseum Danmark in Copenhagen tells the story of an art form that sits between craft and design, showcasing pioneers such as Marie Gudme Leth and Grete Ehs Østergaard alongside contemporary voices like Janne Wendt and Vibeke Riisberg. One aspect takes centre stage: the decisive role that women have played in shaping Danish textile design.

*Axel Salto. Céramique. Designmuseum Danmark | Photo: Pernille Klemp*

The history of textile printing in Denmark began in the early 20th century when architects and artists such as Arne Jacobsen and Axel Salto became involved in the process. However, it was primarily shaped by small workshops and exquisite handcraft, where humour, poetry and a bold use of colour came together. The exhibition sheds light on this ‘golden age’, as well as current developments, including eight new pieces created uniquely for the exhibition by renowned designers.

Textile Printing as an Art Form

“The Power of Print” offers insights into techniques and processes, revealing the craft behind the aesthetics and demonstrating that textile printing is not a thing of the past, but a vibrant contemporary design medium. The works on display combine traditional methods with modern expression, offering a glimpse into the future of textile design.

Accompanying the exhibition is a comprehensive publication on the history of Danish textile printing, written by curator Kirsten Toftegaard, as well as a catalogue featuring portraits of the eight contemporary artists.