The Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) is proud to present BITTERSWEET: The Design of Chocolate, a delictable new exhibition that invites visitors to experience chocolate like never before—through the lens of design.
Opening June 8, BITTERSWEET traces the rich and complex journey of chocolate across centuries and continents, exploring how design influences every stage of its story—from cultivation and packaging to marketing and cultural meaning. Along the way, the exhibition unpacks the global systems—economic, environmental, and social—that shape how chocolate is made, consumed, and valued.
“Design is everywhere in the world of chocolate—from the rituals that shape our consumption to the systems by which it’s harvested, produced, and packaged,” says Laura Flusche, Executive Director of MODA and curator of Bittersweet. “This exhibition reveals how thoughtful design influences not just how chocolate looks and tastes, but how it functions within cultures, economies, and environments around the globe.”
Through immersive displays and interactive experiences, visitors can:
- Follow chocolate’s journey from sacred drink in ancient Mesoamerica to modern candy aisles
- Learn how today’s craft chocolate makers do their work
- Discover extraordinary farmers and ethical chocolate makers who are transforming the global chocolate industry
- Unwrap the evolution of chocolate packaging, from foil and paper to sustainable and surprising designs
- Get to know Atlanta’s own chocolate changemakers, Xocolatl Small Batch Chocolate, JARDí Chocolates, Cocoatown, and Lewis Pogue Chocolate
- Delight in learning what lies behind your favorite chocolate treats—from heart-shaped boxes and chocolate eggs to indulgent bonbons
- Add your creativity to a giant, collaborative box of chocolate by crafting your own paper truffle
BITTERSWEET: The Design of Chococolate Graphic, provided by the Museum of Design Atlanta
Curated by MODA Executive Director Laura Flusche, BITTERSWEET was brought to life by exhibition designer Susan Sanders and graphic designer Judith Rios.
Member Preview:
The exhibition kicks off with a preview for MODA members on Saturday, June 7, allowing them to enjoy early access to BITTERSWEET, connect with the curatorial team, and enjoy conversation with featured local chocolate makers.
Public Programs:
In conjunction with the exhibition, MODA will offer guided tastings led by Atlanta’s premier chocolate makers, giving visitors a chance to explore flavor, craft, and origin through expertly made confections. MODA will also host Business x Design talks, where industry leaders share how thoughtful design fuels creativity, builds brand identity, and powers business success.
- Tasting: Learn About Chocolate with Xocolatl (June 20, 2025)
- Cask & Cacao: Whiskey Meets Chocolate at MODA (June 26, 2026)
- Tasting: Learn About Chocolate with Xocolatl (July 10, 2025)
- Business x Design: Jocelyn DeBuke of JARDÍ Chocolates (July 16, 2025)
- Tasting: Chocolate and Coffee with Lewis Pogue Chocolate (July 18, 2025)
- Business x Design: Xocolatl Small Batch Chocolate (August 13, 2025)
- Tasting: An Evening with Lewis Pogue Artisan Chocolate (August 7, 2025)
- Tasting: Learn About Chocolate with Xocolatl (August 29, 2025)
- Tasting: Learn About Chocolate with Xocolatl (September 11, 2025)
Exhibition Dates:
BITTERSWEET: The Design of Chocolate runs from June 8 – September 14, 2025. For more information or to register for any MODA programs, visit museumofdesign.org
About MODA:
The Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) is the Southeast’s only museum dedicated to the transformative power of design. Located in Midtown Atlanta, MODA curates exhibitions and programs that inspire creativity, reflection, and positive change.
