Design in Context: Milan…. where do I even begin? This past month was the most stimulating and exciting month I’ve had in a long time. I’ve learned so much and experienced so many new things that will go on to impact my life.
When I was packing my bag to come here, I didn’t know what to expect. I had never been to Europe before, barely knew any Italian. But as soon as I landed in Milan, a sense of calm overcame me. It felt right like this was home and that I would like it. And that still holds true today.
I’m very grateful to have gotten this opportunity. Back in Austin, it isn’t every day that we go visit studios or even have a lot of evidence of design history and architecture like we see it here.
Being here in Milan has made me realize the magnitude of design. You see it everywhere and you see it in different forms. Through old and new. It made me realize that its bigger than anyone of us. You have to understand your presence within it and be able to guide yourself and voice through it.
One thing that shaped my understanding of my own culture was the interaction between language. It was so surprising to see the level of accommodation the people have here. The fact that you might not even speak good Italian or any at all doesn’t mean much. The locals will try to communicate in English with you because they know it’ll be easier for you. Which is dramatically different than in the US and more apparent given the current political climate.
One non-design that impacted me was the realization of my own carbon footprint. I was intrigued to see that everyone here separates their trash and is environmentally conscious. It makes you think about what you throw away and the amount of it. It’s something I’ll take back with me to Austin.
And now for some highlights in order of our trip:
- Duomo di Milano
I probably lost count of the number of times I’ve passed by it. I don’t think I’ll ever get over the intricate details- from the windows to the actual structure of it and the gothic architecture. It’s beautifully crafted and you can’t find a better view of the city than from the top of it.
2. Fondazione Prada
We visited a lot of museums this month but the Fondazione Prada was one I enjoyed a lot. I’m a huge fan of contemporary art and getting to learn of new artists and seeing their perspectives was inspiring.
3. Milano Arch week
Although I only attended one day, hearing from the speakers about their process and projects is something I’ll take with me into my career. I also got to see Toyo Ito in person which was an amazing experience.
4. Piazzale Cimitero Monumentale
The interior was breath-taking with the use of orange and blue (complementary colors). I’ve never really been a fan of cemeteries or have willingly walked into one but there was something beautiful about this one (as weird as that sounds).
5. Alessi
Visiting Alessi was such a treat as I was able to learn more about product design. I was most intrigued by their scale system used to determine whether a certain product is successful/unique enough. It only reiterated what is considered good design.
6. Achille Castiglioni
Our visit to Achille Castiglioni’s studio was my favorite studio visit on our trip. I loved getting to see his designed objects and learning about his process.
7. Paris
Visiting Paris felt like a dream. We were only there for the weekend and it all went by so fast. Ever since I was little, I dreamed of going to Paris so being able to fulfill that dream was pretty great. Paris is a wonderful city and I hope to come back to it one day.
8. Artemide
My favorite thing about our trip to Artemide was getting to see their production and process. Being able to see how they test their products and package them gave me insight into the company. The visit only reiterated my growing interest in lighting.
9. Benniale
The Benniale was nothing like I had experienced before. The concept of having various countries put together exhibitions is ingenious. It’s like getting a taste of the country without having to visit it.
10. My shared apartment – Via Ausonio 8
Although it was a tiny apartment – one bathroom and no air conditioning, it was something I looked forward to after our long days. A lot of great memories were made in this apartment and leaving it was a sad one.
Overall this trip was one for the books. Milan is such a memorizing city and one I will come back to in the future.