There is subtlety in good design. And power, too. Take the famous “I Love NY” logo. Would it have become iconic if “NY” were spelled out, i.e., New York? Or if the heart that symbolizes the word “Love” were pink instead of red? Look at the Telfar shopping bag, the so-called “Bushwick Birkin.” Would it carry the same weight without its perfectly elegant TC monogram, positioned just so? This exhibition explores how everyday objects from Post-its to Spanx achieve cultural status through smart, intentional design. —Elena Clavarino