Alessandro Mendini, Nathlie Provosty, and More Must-See Milan Shows

Nathlie Provosty: What A Fool Ever To Be Tricked Into Seriousness at ICA Milano
March 24, 2023 - April 22, 2023
On March 24, Fondazione ICA Milano, in collaboration with APALAZZOGALLERY, Brescia, unveiled a multidimensional solo exhibition of American artist Nathlie Provosty, curated by Alberto Salvadori and currently on view through April 22. Bearing a title of text from legendary poet William Carlos Williams, “What A Fool Ever To Be Tricked Into Seriousness” explores a selection of the artist’s never-before-seen oil paintings and early works. In a visceral juxtaposition of abstract figures, shapes, and landscapes, Provosty investigates both art and human history, echoing Williams’ poem of a man who has a grand epiphany when that which he held to be vital truth—his life’s work—proves to be a devastating falsehood. Alongside an experimental musical performance by artist and composer Gryphon Rue on April 11, Provosty invites viewers to reflect on perception and duality, and to feel the depth of contradictions in everyday life.

Alessandro Mendini: “L’ETÀ DEI METALLI” at M77 Gallery
April 4, 2023 - May 20, 2023
On April 4, M77 Gallery presented, “L’ETÀ DEI METALLI” (The Age of Metals), a vibrant show as tribute to the late multidisciplinary artist Alessandro Mendini (1931-2019), currently on view through May 20 in Milan. Emanuela Baccaro Giuseppe Lezzi and Emanuela Baccaro of M77 Gallery, alongside curator Stephan Hamel with Francesca Alfano Miglietti, unveil the ever-inspiring metallic creations of the iconic poet, architect, and designer, who left an unforgettable mark on global art and design. Mendini’s treasured objects and sculptures in compelling shapes and lustrous materials such as gold, steel, and glass allude to human beings’ passionate connection to symbol and ceremony. 55 mystical works, from sumptuous gold leaf furniture, to pendant jewels and embellished alphabet decor, to original paintings and drawings from the archive, make up the enchanting show as a generous look into the dazzling psyche of a perceptive, singular artist.

“From the depths of time, the objects in this world have possessed a soul, that of the spiritual aspirations of individuals and peoples.” said Mendini in 2014. “The mass-produced objects of the industrial era are efforts to recover that lost soul.”

"The Bright Side of Design" at Nilufar Depot & Nilufar Gallery
April 17, 2023 - April 23, 2023
Nilufar Gallery returns to Milan Design Week with the debut of “The Bright Side of Design,” a sweeping show at both the Depot and Gallery spaces from April 17-23. Founder Nina Yashar sheds light on her exquisite design journey, celebrating the artistry of masters such as Osvaldo Borsani in conversation with contemporary creatives like Lucia Massari, Lola Montes Schnabel, and Allegra Hicks. Highlights include a solo exhibition by Objects of Common Interest—curated by Valentina Ciuffi of Studio Vedèt and Yashar, titled “Poikilos,” which envelops viewers in the sheer magic of light, held within The Nilufar Depot—as well as

Nilufar’s debut designs of chairs, tables, and lighting, in vibrant colors and compelling, organic shapes, energetically exploring the future of international design and elevating the curiosity and imagination of its brilliant artists.

Belgian Design Pavilion at Fiera Milano
April 18, 2023 - April 23, 2023
On the occasion of Milan Design Week, Timon Mattelaer and Verstrepen.studio curate this year’s inspired Belgian Design Pavilion, on view from April 18-23 at Fiera Milano. A range of designers come together in the elegant space to display the crème de la crème of stylish and environmentally conscious Belgian design for an international audience. Atelier Timon Mattelaer showcases his ardent commitment to sustainability with the simple chair—a stunningly sleek design, deftly created from a sheet of steel or aluminum. Verstrepen.studio’s “Traces of nature” sculptural work evokes their ongoing ethics of contemplation, rest, and nurture with textured wooden blocks which support the timeless, peaceful quality of glowing candlesticks. Fractall’s Disrupt tables take their poetic forms from the shapes of cracks in the earth’s surface, while their luminous Spire Lamp echoes the historic majesty, and lit-from-within glow, of New York’s Chrysler Building.