The island of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice, a historical landmark renowned for its architectural beauty, has once again become a stage for a captivating event—the third edition of Homo Faber. This design festival, orchestrated by the Michelangelo Foundation for Creativity and Craftsmanship, celebrates contemporary craftsmanship with a unique and immersive exhibition.
The heart of Homo Faber lies within the Fondazione Giorgio Cini, where a network of buildings has been transformed into a vibrant tapestry of artistic expression. Curators Luca Guadagnino, renowned film director and interior designer, and Nicolò Rosmarini, Milanese architect, have crafted an extraordinary experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional exhibitions.
Across 11 themed chapters, from ‘childhood’ to ‘love’ to ‘dreams,’ Homo Faber invites visitors on a journey through the ‘journey of life’. Over 800 objects sourced from more than 70 countries are meticulously displayed, each a testament to the artistry and skill of makers from around the globe. The exhibition’s layout, inspired by the works of renowned Venetian architects, creates a harmonious flow, seamlessly blending the past and present.
One of the most striking features of Homo Faber is its playful and engaging nature. A room dedicated to ‘childhood’ bursts with intricately detailed dollhouses, whimsical animal figurines, and a captivating armchair by Seungjin Yang that appears to be sculpted from balloons but is, in fact, crafted from resin. In the ‘love’ section, a captivating installation by Azerbaijani artist Faig Ahmed blends traditional oriental rug motifs with contemporary design, culminating in a celebration of love’s consummation.
Beyond individual pieces, Homo Faber presents a series of multisensory experiences, including live demonstrations by artisans. Visitors can witness the meticulous craftsmanship involved in creating a Cartier Panthère bracelet or marvel at the delicate beauty of Van Cleef & Arpels Lovebirds jewels from the 1940s.
For fashion enthusiasts, Homo Faber offers a breathtaking spectacle: an enormous, rippling pool of water, illuminated to resemble an oil slick, provides a mesmerizing backdrop for a collection of hooded Alaïa dresses. Their shimmering velvet fabric, in subtle gradations of color, evokes the ethereal glow of moonlight.
However, Homo Faber is not just for design connoisseurs. The Michelangelo Foundation has made a conscious effort to make the exhibition accessible to a wider audience by offering a free shuttle waterbus from San Marco. This open-armed approach sets Homo Faber apart from many other design exhibitions, ensuring that everyone can partake in this celebration of contemporary craftsmanship.
The exhibition’s vibrant atmosphere, infused with joy and irreverence, invites visitors to engage with the artistry and creativity on display. Homo Faber is a testament to the enduring power of human ingenuity and the timeless beauty of handcrafted objects.
But time is of the essence. Homo Faber will close its doors on September 30, 2023. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a truly unique and unforgettable exhibition in the heart of Venice.
