As we ventured through Italy, Milan beckoned with the allure of the renowned Milan Design Week. Among our anticipated destinations was Alcova, a must-see destination during the event. Guiding us through the experience was Sofia Pia Belenky from Space Caviar, a participant in Alcova 2024. Thanks to her guidance, we had the privilege of bypassing the lengthy queue and delving straight into some of the exhibition's most significant projects.
During our visit, we had the privilege of conversing with the founders of Alcova, Valentina Ciuffi and Joseph Grima. Alcova made its debut in 2018, attracting over 40,000 visitors during the six days of Salone. It revitalized forgotten locations of historical significance, momentarily transforming them into venues for engaging activities. Previous venues included a former cashmere mill, a former Macello, and others. This year, Alcova graced Villa Bagatti Valsecchi and Villa Borsani with its presence.
- Words: Fynn
- Photos: Yinjispace Alcova.milano Piergiorgio Sorgetti
The juxtaposition of modernist and Lombard Baroque architecture provided a captivating backdrop, igniting conversations between tradition and innovation. From the grandeur of Villa Bagatti Valsecchi's park, adorned with public art installations, to the intimate corners of Villa Borsani, every space awaited our exploration. Here, the narratives of designers intertwined, from established luminaries to emerging talents, each contributing to our collective vision of the future.
In the heart of the villa, a public art installation by Objects of Common Interest transformed the verdant lawn into a mesmerizing tableau of geometric forms and playful colors. Hidden in the greenery of the same park was the ad-hoc intervention by Japanese architect Junya Ishigami for the Maniera gallery in the former ice-house.
As we roamed the halls, we encountered a tapestry of ideas – from sustainable materials to digital craftsmanship, from sociopolitical commentary to architectural speculation. Each exhibit offered us a glimpse into the myriad facets of contemporary design, inviting reflection on the evolving landscape of our living spaces. As it said, Alcova invited the public into an almost surreal microcosm; a historically relevant context in which to gather to imagine the future of design through installations, performances and collective moments.
The manner in which the Baroque-style castle was opened evoked Deleuze's association of folds with Baroque art—folding, unfolding, and folding again. The movement and fluidity of the Baroque style resonated with Alcova's nomadic curatorial approach. Alcova unfolded the field of historical architecture, inviting us to immerse ourselves in its reimagined narrative upon entering the exhibition space. Uniting with previous locations, it created a city in motion. We visited a Milan unlike any other. As we departed, our footsteps may perhaps be folded into it. As we eagerly await the next iteration of Alcova, we do so with anticipation, knowing that wherever it takes us, it will undoubtedly be a journey worth embarking upon.
