Glitter fascinates, irritates and tells stories of identity, belonging and resistance. The Gewerbemuseum Winterthur presents the exhibition "Glitter" in collaboration with the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe Hamburg and looks at the dazzling material as a medium of social expression, artistic productions and political interventions. Glitter is shown here not only as a decorative element, but also as a mirror of cultural diversity, a symbol of self-determination and a medium for empowerment.

The show brings together around 40 international positions from art, design and performance. Photographs, video installations, sculptures and stage costumes show how glitter is used in protests, performances and subcultures to create visibility, question role expectations and empower marginalized groups. Works by Quil Lemons, Hannah Altman and Pansy St. Battie show the political and personal power of the material, while costumes by Bill Kaulitz, extravagant wigs and nail art celebrate the creative staging of identity.

Pansy St. Battie: Model and burlesque performer, photo: Xenia Curdova © Pansy St. Battie

Visitors can become active themselves in interactive areas: Glitter is used creatively in the D.I.Y. workshop, while the "Hall of Glitter" opens up a cosmos of everyday objects, collector's items and private favorites. A multimedia archive tells the story of the material from antiquity to pop culture, complemented by a playful installation by artist duo :mentalKLINIK, in which vacuum-cleaning robots pick up glitter and scatter it again - a constantly changing, living image.

Particular attention is paid to the ecological aspects: In a materials laboratory, visitors learn what glitter is made of, how it occurs in nature and what sustainable alternatives are available. The exhibition combines play, reflection and aesthetic experience and makes it clear that glitter is far more than just an effect - it is an instrument of communication, identity formation and social debate. "Glitter" invites you to experience the dazzling world between glamor, politics and pop culture with all your senses.
November 28, 2025 to May 17, 2026
https://gewerbemuseum.ch