kristen di fate

World-renown Saint Louis Art Museum has been dedicated to art and free to all for over 115 years. In addition to its expansive permanent collection, the Museum hosts an assortment of special exhibitions each year, each unique and ambitious.

One such exhibition—The Culture: Hip Hop & Contemporary Art in the 21^st Century—aimed to deliver an edgy experience that enveloped visitors in the global evolution of hip hop culture and its expression across music, visual and performing arts, fashion, and technology.

We turned this iconic cultural institution into a place to see and be seen. It’s a vibe — warm, moody and sophisticated, with custom speaker-cabinet feature walls, interactive experiences, and Instagrammable moments.

From the labyrinthine layout and dramatic lighting to the dark walls brushed with gold accents, we crafted a space that radiated the seductive energy of an upscale nightclub—complete with a pulsing soundtrack that brought it all to life.