As we move through the month of September, and Detroit’s acclaimed Month of Design, Detroitisit would be remiss if we did not highlight one of the most influential, impressive and immersive installations that will act as a unique bridge to promote Italian Design in Detroit and thus, throughout the world.
The Consulate of Italy in Detroit, Allegra Baistrocchi and the Dante Alighieri Society of Michigan are taking part for the first time in Detroit Month of Design with a project called “LoveITDetroit” a highly experiential, collaborative, and multi-sensory architectural exhibition, focused on innovation and design.
LoveITDetroit – running the entire month of September at 1001 Woodward Avenue – is curated by internationally renowned Architect and Designer, Palomba Serafini, and will include the best brands on the Italian scene, encompassing the sectors that most characterize Italian creativity in the world, such as fashion, food, furniture, automotive and much more.
LOVEITDETROIT INSTALLATION
Palomba says, “I am honored that the Consul requested me as their Italian Design Ambassador back in March, because I felt an instant empathic connection with Detroit and from that was born this incredible project by which we want to see more of Italy in Detroit’s Renaissance”
In parallel to the local event, there will be a highly engaging virtual exhibition – featuring virtual and real-world dialogue. The LoveITDetroit Metaspace, will go live on September 7th and will be a digital twin of the physical environment.
With 24/7 access, visitors will be able to visit the virtual space, interacting at their own pace with the exhibition and the brands: it will be a truly global event accessible to all.
Further, the organization of “Pop Up” events is also planned with a focus on the various declinations of Made in Italy Design: aerospace, mobility, fashion, food & beverage, furniture, graphic and digital arts and education
THE WHY
Consul Baistrocchi was able to introduce the event and explain how it came about. “There is no doubt that our country is among the most loved in the world for its celebrated traditional aspects: art and architecture; Made in Italy and design; our culinary excellence and our wines; the music; nature and landscapes. […] but we have to also remember that Italy is the 8th economic power in the world and the 5th country in the world for manufacturing; the first country in Europe for company investments in R&D, one of the world’s largest players in renewable energy, the first circular economy in Europe, one of the main actors in the world’s luxury industry…” said Consul Baistrocchi. The ambition is to spread awareness of a contemporary Italy, which is technologically advanced and innovative.”
LOVEITDETROIT INSTALLATION
Luca Vasarri, Business Development Manager for Palomba Serafini Associati
weighs in, saying “We want to not only show people what Italy is today, but provide an experience. When in Italy, one might stumble upon a village and discover craftsmanship and amazing architecture and a quaint boutique filled with uniquely designed local pieces. We have designed the installation as a path to guide participants around a selection of pieces – a discovery of products and innovation. And we are using design as a way to connect and make that impact on people.”
WHY DETROIT?
Consul Baistrocchi explained that LoveITDetroit came about by the idea of not only of promoting a contemporary Italy but also with the ambition of letting the world know what a fantastic city Detroit is. “Detroit is the only UNESCO city of Design in the US, and so it was logic to use design as a way to connect and to do it here. We are in an incredibly vibrant city in which you can find anything cultural at any time: from great street graffiti to the Detroit Institute of Art (one of the best museums in the Country); you can find amazing jazz cafes and underground rap battles or go to the Detroit Opera House or the Detroit Symphony,”
LOVEITDETROIT INSTALLATION
From a design perspective, Luca says, “Detroit understands design and has a sensitivity to design unlike other cities. We speak the same language in this way. The city is also one of great opportunity and energy. We want to build a long-term relationship and lasting impression and impact, and Detroit is the city for this.”
LoveITDetroit runs the entire month of September from 10 am to 5 pm at 1001 Woodward Avenue and you can find more information here.
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