Design Bookstore

Overview

Nestled within the striking architecture of the MO Museum in Vilnius, Lithuania, the Design Bookstore, often referred to as the MO Shop, offers a curated extension of the museum's modern and contemporary art experience. While not a standalone entity named 'Design Bookstore,' the MO Shop serves this purpose by presenting a thoughtful selection of books on art, design, and architecture, alongside unique Lithuanian-designed items and museum-specific souvenirs. It provides a space for visitors to delve deeper into the themes explored within the museum's galleries and to take a piece of Lithuanian creativity home with them. The museum also features a comprehensive Reading Room, which further amplifies its commitment to art education and exploration, housing over 3,000 books related to art, museums, and architecture.

History & Cultural Background

The MO Museum itself, founded by Lithuanian scientists and philanthropists Danguolė Butkienė and Viktoras Butkus, opened its doors in 2018, having previously functioned as an 'art museum without walls' for nearly a decade. Its collection, declared of national significance in 2011, focuses on Lithuanian modern and contemporary art from the 1950s and 1960s to the present day. The museum building, designed by world-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind in collaboration with Do Architects, is conceived as a cultural gateway connecting Vilnius' medieval Old Town with its modern 18th-century new town. This architectural marvel, with its distinctive luminous white plaster facade and dramatic spiral staircase, replaced the culturally iconic Lietuva Cinema, revitalizing the area. The MO Shop and Reading Room were integral to Libeskind's vision, ensuring that the museum offers educational areas and a holistic cultural experience beyond just its exhibition halls.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Design Bookstore (MO Shop) apart is its meticulous curation, reflecting the MO Museum's core mission to make art accessible and foster a 'living culture.' It's not merely a place for trinkets, but a thoughtfully assembled collection that extends the artistic narrative. Here, visitors can find books published by the MO Museum itself, including albums of paintings, graphics, and drawings from its vast collection. Furthermore, it offers publications on art history, architecture, and design from other publishers, catering to both seasoned art connoisseurs and curious beginners, including special books for children designed to fill gaps in art education. Beyond literature, the shop features unique, exclusively Lithuanian designs—ranging from jewelry and candles to notebooks and stationery—many of which are specially created for the museum by local designers. Each item, even a simple postcard or pencil, is presented with an artistic sensibility, transforming everyday objects into small works of art.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The MO Museum holds a special place in the heart of its architect, Daniel Libeskind, who described it as his 'smallest but most beloved' project, notable for being the first time he incorporated a circular form, visible in the museum's iconic spiral staircase. This staircase, a photographic favorite, visually links the museum's spaces and symbolizes the journey through art. The Design Bookstore plays into the museum's dedication to community and education; for instance, the museum has translated and published books for children to enhance art education, making art more approachable for younger generations. The shop's commitment to showcasing Lithuanian design also highlights the country's vibrant creative scene, offering a tangible connection to local artists and their craft. The existence of the MO Reading Room, with its extensive collection of over 3,000 art-related books, further underscores the museum's educational ethos, inviting visitors to linger, learn, and immerse themselves in the world of art and culture.

Visitor Perspective

For the curious traveler, the Design Bookstore inside the MO Museum is more than just a shop; it is an integral part of the museum's immersive experience. After exploring the diverse collection of Lithuanian modern and contemporary art, stepping into the MO Shop offers a chance to reflect on the exhibitions and deepen one's appreciation. Visitors often remark on finding unique prints, interesting books, and distinct sketchbooks, noting the accessible prices for such high-quality, creatively curated items. The blend of books, from those detailing the MO Collection to broader works on global art and design, alongside locally crafted souvenirs, allows travelers to take a meaningful piece of their Vilnius journey home. It's a testament to the museum's vision that even the retail space feels like a discovery, providing not just products, but a continuation of the cultural and artistic dialogue initiated by the exhibitions themselves. The atmosphere is one of thoughtful exploration, encouraging visitors to connect with Lithuanian art and design on a more personal level.