NEW YORK—In collaboration with Selima Optique, based here, Manhattan’s Neue Galerie introduced the recently released Sigmund Freud Sunshades into its assortment of contemporary German and Austrian art and design. The exclusive event, held in the lobby of the gallery on Feb. 7, invited museum members and friends of store owner Selima Salaun to view the collection as well as peruse the gallery’s Spring exhibitions, “German Expressionism 1900-1930: Masterpieces from the Neue Galerie Collection” and “German and Austrian Decorative Art from Jugendstil to the Bauhaus: The Harry C. Sigman Gift.”

According to Salaun, the collection is the brainchild of museum director Renée Price, who approached Salaun with the idea after learning of her previous collaborations. The boutique owner expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership.

“I love art, and it’s rare that a museum comes to me,” Salaun told VM. “I was really excited. Renée knew exactly what she wanted.”

Price shared in Salaun’s excitement, having been interested in eyewear and connecting with Salaun through a mutual friend, she said. “I like to approach designers or architects who can create something that relates to our collection. It keeps it fresh,” said Price.

Sigmund Freud, the Austrian psychiatrist and neurologist known as the founding father of psychoanalysis, was also famous for his small, round frames. The limited edition collection includes one sun style in tortoise and one optical style in black, and is being sold exclusively in the Neue Galerie design store. Salaun’s assistant, LuLu Saleh, said there is possibility the collection will be sold elsewhere in the future. ■

cwolinski@jobson.com

     
 Neue Galerie director Renée Price (l) and Selima Optique owner Selima Salaun at the presentation.
 The frames displayed with a photograph of their namesake, Sigmund Freud.
 (L to R): Selima Optique’s Naveed Hussain, Selima Salaun, LuLu Saleh and Reid David.