On Friday and Saturday, November 26 and 27, the 5th AIS/Design conference, the Italian Association of Design Historians, will take place. Curated by Fiorella Bulegato, Maddalena Dalla Mura, Gabriele Monti, and organized at the Iuav University of Venice, it is dedicated to the theme of design exposed, in the dual perspective of showcasing the history of design and the history of design exhibitions, with a specific focus on experiences and projects exploring the digital dimension.
Ten years after its establishment in 2011, the Association of Design Historians resumes reflections on the role of exhibition and curatorial practices in the history of design and fashion and in the historical elaboration of design. Reflecting on these themes today holds particular significance. The events of the past year, with the outbreak of the Covid-19 emergency and the forced closures of museums, archives, libraries, and galleries, indeed prompt a renewed discussion on the past and future of the various forms of mediation and production of culture and the history of design and fashion.
Through an intensive program of presentations—spread over two days—numerous scholars will explore the multiple histories of “design exposed,” from the early 20th century to the contemporary, questioning the intersections and material and conceptual relationships that have defined and continue to redefine the past, present, and future of the history of design and fashion, both within and outside the contexts of exhibiting.
The conference—which takes place online—concludes with a round table, featuring contributions from Beppe Finessi (ADI Design Museum), Maria Luisa Frisa (Iuav University of Venice), Raimonda Riccini (Iuav University of Venice), Marco Sammicheli (Italian Design Museum, Triennale Milano), Francesca Zanella (University of Modena and Reggio Emilia).