Io Sono Un Drago,
La vera storia di Alessandro Mendini
Triennale Milano
from 13 April to 13 October 2024
In the heart of Milan's dynamic art and design scene, the Triennale Milano and the Fondation Cartier present a significant retrospective of the late Alessandro Mendini (1931-2019). Titled "Io sono un Drago" ("I am a Dragon"), the exhibition, organized in collaboration with Elisa and Fulvia Mendini - Archivio Alessandro Mendini, pays tribute to Mendini's prolific career. This retrospective, one of the largest to date, takes its name from one of Mendini’s emblematic self-portraits.
Alessandro Mendini, a revered architect, designer, artist, and theorist, left a lasting legacy in the world of design. Under the curatorial direction of Fulvio Irace, the exhibition spans multiple thematic sections, offering a comprehensive view of Mendini's diverse body of work. Featuring over 400 pieces, the show includes paintings, sculptures, installations, films, drawings, as well as architectural and interior designs. It also highlights his influence on key design publications like Modo, Casabella, and Domus.
Mendini's work, known for its bold colors and avant-garde approach, defies simple categorization. Alongside contemporaries like Ettore Sottsass, Mendini was a key figure in 20th-century radical design. His playful and youthful design philosophy is vividly captured in the exhibition. Notable highlights include a giant version of his iconic Proust Chair (1978) at the entrance and a mini cathedral composed of Bisazza mosaics, with a characteristic character face featured inside, hoisted like a religious icon, wearing a necklace Mendini drew for Cartier.
Pierre Charpin, a frequent collaborator and friend of Mendini, designed the exhibition layout, creating spaces that highlight individual works while maintaining a cohesive overall narrative. Charpin's design complements the exhibition, echoing the thoughtfulness seen in their previous collaboration for Mendini’s 2010 exhibition "Quale che siamo" at the Triennale.
Running from April 13 to October 13, “Io sono un Drago” offers an in-depth exploration of Mendini's multifaceted career. The exhibition not only presents Mendini's well-known creations but also delves into the underlying concepts driving his vision. From whimsical to profound, Mendini's creations highlight the power of imagination, his freedom of spirit, and his resolutely avant-garde approach. This exhibition stands as a testament to his enduring influence, inspiring future generations to embrace creativity and exploration.
Produced with: Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain
In collaboration with: Archivio Alessandro Mendini
Curated by: Fulvio Irace
Exhibition design: Pierre Charpin
© Photos by Delfino Sisto Legnani, DSL Studio
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