Dolce&Gabbana: Gen D Vol.2

Luxferity, 29.04.2024

The Gen D projects returned for a second season at the 2024 Milano Design Week. Rooted in the enduring commitment that has consistently defined Dolce&Gabbana's support for emerging talents, initially in fashion and subsequently in design.

This journey originates from the desire of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana to champion the creativity of young designers and, simultaneously, forge a connection between them and the rich tapestry of Italy−both its tangible and intangible treasures. It encapsulates a blend of history, culture, and a zest for life, emanating from the dedication of Italian artisans who perpetuate age-old traditions while consistently infusing them with innovation.

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This year, Federica Sala has also curated a selection of ten, actually eleven, designers under the age of 40 who have engaged in meaningful dialogue with the brand and some of Italy’s finest, bringing along their unique cultural perspectives.

While the inaugural edition highlighted the cultural dualities of the designers, this year’s selection shifts its focus to their connection with materials and craftsmanship. This introduces a fresh perspective to the ongoing dialogue with our exceptional artisans.

It’s no coincidence that this year, two of the designers−Thabisa Mjo from South Africa and Mingyu Xu from China−have chosen to divide their production between their home countries and Italy. This expansion aligns seamlessly with the inherent DNA of Gen D, enriching the concept of cultural bridges. Additionally, the Mexican designer Mestiz, based in San Miguel de Allende, skillfully encapsulates the vibrant colors of their homeland using diverse, handcrafted materials. Similarly, London-based Chinese designer Jie Wu draws inspiration from her cultural heritage, offering a contemporary interpretation through her creative works.

Connecting the past with the future is the creative endeavor of South Korean designer Byungsub Kim, who breathes new life into the traditional art of mother-of-pearl inlaying of their country. On a different note, Austrian designer Laurids Gallée injects a vein of irony into his reinterpretation of woodworking, infusing it with a modern twist. Meanwhile, the artistic duo Touche-Touche, comprised of Carolin Giezner and Théo Demans from Atelier Zavantem in Brussels, adopts a wholly conceptual approach, crafting experimental projects that, like in this case, transform into innovative interactive spaces.

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Straddling two cultural realms are English designer Hannah Lim, navigating the intersections of her dual British and Singaporean cultural identity by seamlessly traversing the domains of both design and fine arts. Similarly, Ella Bulley, based in London, draws inspiration from her Ghanaian cultural heritage in her work, which centers on materials research and artisanal transformation. In a parallel pursuit, Turin-based designer Riccardo Cenedella anchors his research on recovered materials, utilizing them as a pivotal point in his creative exploration.

This year, the chosen designers for the project have taken the initiative to select their preferred materials or artisanal techniques, initiating a second season of artists in residence. This program has led them to various regions across Italy, delving into the realms of ceramic and glass mosaics, exploring historical artisanal mills, mastering the art of blown glass, metal enameling, engaging in smelting or carpentry, and uncovering distinctive features of the brand itself, such as its internal painting atelier.

This enriching journey, filled with cultural exchanges and inspirations, has once again guided the young designers to conceive distinctive pieces. These creations convey the dynamic energy of volcanoes and the vibrant chromatic joy of Sicily. The designers ingeniously engage with archetypes, playfully transforming stereotypes, while skillfully transmitting our inherent sense of comedy. This culmination gives rise to a new season of connections, all under the auspices of design.