kreo: Icons of 21st Century Design – Didier Krzentowski, UFE Expert in Design and Contemporary Art
From January 14 to 28, 2026, Christie’s Paris presents kreo: Icons of 21st Century Design, an exhibition bringing together major pieces produced by Galerie kreo over the past three decades.
Founded in 1999 by Clémence and Didier Krzentowski, and now directed with their daughter Clara, Galerie kreo has established itself as a true laboratory of design—a place of experimentation and freedom, where creators find the space to explore and push the boundaries of their discipline. Over time, the gallery has produced and exhibited works that have become part of the language of contemporary design, many of which have joined the permanent collections of international museums.
A global leader in the art, luxury, and design market, Christie’s has always maintained strong relationships with the disciplines and works of every era it has witnessed since its founding in 1766. With this exhibition, the focus turns to the most contemporary, demanding, and innovative creation of the century: in the span of thirty years, the pieces in the exhibition have already established themselves as milestones in the history of design, and outline what tomorrow’s icons will be.
The exhibition brings together a constellation of these historic and emblematic pieces by Marc Newson, Hella Jongerius, Jasper Morrison, Konstantin Grcic, Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec, Pierre Charpin, Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby, among others. Together, they form a portrait of the creation and dialogue that have marked the evolution of design at the turn of the 21st century.
Marc Newson stated: “One cannot really underestimate Didier’s importance. He has played a decisive role in the careers of many designers, including mine, by offering us the opportunity to work outside strictly commercial or industrial projects. In a way, he embodies what one calls a patron. Didier maintains an always fresh vision and finds deep joy in his work—something that struck me when we first met over 30 years ago and has not changed since.”
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