Milan is set to offer a unique experience this year as Jil Sander prepares to present a distinctive artistic installation during Milan Design Week. Creative director Simone Bellotti emphasized the contrasting vibe of this exhibition compared to traditional fashion shows, highlighting the brand’s evolving approach to design and culture.
Bellotti’s inaugural project under the OTB label will launch in the brand’s sleek, minimalistic headquarters, a venue that has become synonymous with Jil Sander’s stunning ready-to-wear collections. The exhibition, aptly named “Reference Library,” invites a diverse group of international creatives to contribute curated book selections, showcasing their inspirations across various disciplines.
Taking place in a white and airy space overlooking the historic Sforzesco Castle, “Reference Library” offers attendees the chance to engage with literature that has influenced artistic perspectives. Opening on Monday and running until April 24, the exhibition is developed in partnership with the esteemed publication Apartamento and Milan-based architectural firm Studioutte.
A sense of solemnity permeates the design of the exhibition, creating an immersive experience for visitors. Chrome lecterns will be arranged in a thoughtful manner, each illuminated by warm lighting to encourage guests to slow down and immerse themselves in the curated works. The goal is to create an environment where individuals can take a moment away from the bustle of the outside world.
Upon registration, which allows for 60 visitors per hour, attendees will be provided with white gloves symbolizing the sanctity of the moment as they explore the curated texts. Each book comes with an explanation of the selector’s reasoning, encouraging deeper contemplation and dialogue among the participants.
“I’m eager to observe how the audience interacts with the installation,” Bellotti shared, expressing his curiosity about the impact of such a culture-driven initiative. The project seeks to stimulate genuine engagement and cultural exchange in a moment where digital experiences often dominate.
The conceptual framework of “Reference Library” reflects a desire to highlight not just finished products but the sources of inspiration that underpin creativity. Bellotti, inspired by a conversation with Marco Velardi, co-founder of Apartamento, saw an opportunity to foster connections among different fields, enabling a rich dialogue that is increasingly vital in today’s landscape.
The list of contributors is impressive, featuring notable names such as curator Hans Ulrich Obrist, artist Faye Toogood, designer Jasper Morrison, architect Anne Holtrop, indie pop artist Lykke Li, costume designer Miyako Bellizzi, and cellist Kelsey Lu. Their selections promise a diverse tapestry of interpretations and insights.
While Bellotti admits he was unfamiliar with many of the selected titles, he values the opportunity to view familiar works from new perspectives. He takes particular interest in Celine Song’s choice of “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer” by Patrick Süskind, underscoring the transformative power of literary engagement.
For his contribution to the library, Bellotti chose “Il Barone Rampante” (The Baron in the Trees) by Italo Calvino, describing its themes of independence and perspective. This beloved narrative, which he has cherished since his twenties, serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining one’s individual viewpoint amidst societal pressure.
Currently, Bellotti is delving into a collection of letters from artist Mark Rothko, sparked by a recent visit to an exhibition dedicated to the painter. He finds Rothko’s reflections on his creative evolution compelling, drawing parallels to the dialogues he aims to foster through “Reference Library.”
Ultimately, Bellotti hopes the exhibition will catalyze real-world conversations, noting the pleasure of engaging with others through traditional means rather than merely through screens. The gloves provided to visitors not only signify care for the materials but also serve as a lasting memento of the experience, reinforcing the notion that even in simplicity, extraordinary moments can unfold.
The innovative approach of “Reference Library” captures the essence of why Milan Design Week remains a critical platform for creativity. By concentrating on the interplay of culture, literature, and design, Jil Sander’s latest initiative challenges the status quo, redefining how we explore the intersections of art and lifestyle. Visitors can look forward to an enriching experience that celebrates both individuality and community within a beautifully crafted environment.
