Beyond Preservation: Fondazione Prada's Milan Marvel
FONDAZIONE PRADA Milan venue Architectural project by OMA - Photo: Alessandro Saletta and Agnese Bedini -DSL Studio - Instagram and social: @alessandrosaletta -@agnesebedini -@dsl__studio - 2020 -Courtesy Fondazione Prada
Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, is a city teeming with artistic and cultural treasures. One standout among its myriad attractions is the Fondazione Prada, a true testament to the city's dedication to contemporary art and cutting-edge architecture. Housed within the historical backdrop of a former distillery complex dating back to the 1910s, this extraordinary institution effortlessly harmonizes the past with the present, presenting a rich tapestry of artistic encounters.
A Diverse Architectural Canvas
The Fondazione Prada's architectural project is a masterstroke by the renowned firm OMA, with Rem Koolhaas and Chris van Duijn at the helm. The site itself comprises a unique industrial complex, featuring seven existing structures such as warehouses, laboratories, and brewing silos, alongside three new additions—the Podium, Cinema, and Torre. With a total built area of 18,900 square meters, including a public area of 12,300 square meters, Fondazione Prada offers an expansive canvas for artistic exploration.
The architectural philosophy behind Fondazione Prada is a far cry from mere preservation or new construction; instead, it presents an intriguing interplay between old and new. The juxtaposition of contrasting elements—new and old, horizontal and vertical, wide and narrow, open and enclosed—creates a dynamic and unpredictable environment that challenges both artists and visitors. Fondazione Prada's architectural complexity encourages an open and evolving programming that fosters a symbiotic relationship between art and architecture.
Atlas: A Journey Through Contemporary Art
Exhibition view of “Atlas”Torre -Fondazione Prada, MilanoPhoto Delfino Sisto Legnani e Marco CappellettiCourtesy Fondazione Prada Carsten HöllerUpside Down Mushroom Room, 2000
One of the compelling exhibitions at Fondazione Prada is "Atlas." This exhibition, housed in Torre—a stunning 60-meter high building—marks the completion of Fondazione Prada's Milan venue. Torre offers an extraordinary environment with specific spatial conditions on each of its nine levels, showcasing a diverse range of contemporary artworks. The exhibition curates a captivating dialogue among artists like Carla Accardi, Jeff Koons, Goshka Macuga, and others, presenting works created between 1960 and 2016.
Immagine del progetto“Atlas”Torre –Fondazione Prada, MilanoFotoDelfino Sisto Legnani e Marco CappellettiCourtesy Fondazione Prada in primo piano: Jeff Koons Tulips, 1995–2004
"Atlas" serves as a visual map of the ideas and visions that have shaped Fondazione Prada's collaborations with artists over the years. The exhibition is designed to evolve, one floor at a time, embracing new interpretations and contributions. This ever-changing nature reflects the institution's commitment to exploring how to program an exhibition space and the significance of a permanent display in a contemporary cultural space.
The Haunted House: Art Preserved and Enhanced
View of the permanent installation by Robert Gober In the middle: Untitled, 2014-2015 In the background: Untitled Wallpaper, 1995-2015 Fondazione Prada Milano 2015 Photo Attilio Maranzano Courtesy Fondazione Prada
Fondazione Prada's Haunted House is another testament to its innovative approach to architecture and art. This part of the former distillery complex, dating back to the 1910s, has been meticulously preserved and enhanced. Reinforcing the original structure and gilding its external surfaces, the Haunted House offers an intimate and atmospheric setting for contemporary art installations.
Robert Gober Untitled 1993-1994 View of the permanent installation by Robert Gober Fondazione Prada Milano 2015 Photo Attilio Maranzano Courtesy Fondazione Prada
Robert Gober's thought-provoking works, which explore themes of sexuality, relationships, and the human condition, find a compelling context within the Haunted House. His installations are complemented by Louise Bourgeois's evocative sculptures, creating a dialogue that transcends time and space.
Louise Bourgeois Single III 1996 Fondazione Prada Milano 2015 Photo Attilio Maranzano Courtesy Fondazione Prada
Processo Grottesco: A Journey into the Grotesque
Incorporating elements of virtual computer technology, Thomas Demand's "Processo Grottesco" takes visitors on a journey into the grotesque. This installation, originally displayed in Venice in 2007, explores the theme of grottoes, drawing inspiration from the bizarre and provocative aesthetics of 16th-century "grottesca" painting techniques. Demand's use of technology allows for the recreation of natural stratifications at an accelerated pace, creating an unreal and mysterious subterranean space within Fondazione Prada's Cinema.
View of the permanent installation 'Processo grottesco' by Thomas Demand Fondazione Prada Milano 2015 Photo Attilio Maranzano Courtesy Fondazione Prada
Dan Flavin: Illuminating Architecture
Dan Flavin's site-specific artwork at Santa Maria Annunciata in Chiesa Rossa, Milan, is a brilliant fusion of art and architecture. Known for his works of light created with fluorescent tubes, Flavin's installation within the church is a testament to his exploration of the relationship between art and its architectural context. The colorful light installation illuminates the church's 1930s design, providing a unique and spiritual experience for visitors.
Jean-Luc Godard's Cinematic Sanctuary
Jean-Luc Godard “Le Studio d’Orphée” Fondazione Prada, Milano Photo/Foto: Agostino Osio -Alto Piano Courtesy Fondazione Prada
Jean-Luc Godard's 'Le Studio d'Orphée' offers a captivating glimpse into the world of a cinematic visionary.
This unique space, situated on the first floor of the Sud gallery, serves as an atelier, a recording and editing studio, and even a living and working sanctuary. In 2019, Godard made the decision to relocate his technical equipment used in his recent film shoots since 2010, along with a treasure trove of personal items, from his studio-house in Rolle, Switzerland.
The title, 'Le Studio d’Orphée,' explicitly invokes the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, drawing a profound parallel between the revered director and the legendary Greek poet-musician. Here, visitors have the exceptional opportunity to witness the creative process in action, as the space provides a setting for the conception, editing, sound mixing, and post-production of Godard's acclaimed works. It's a rare opportunity to step inside the very birthplace of cinematic artistry, inviting exploration and interpretation in its purest form.
In addition to this cinematic treasure trove, Godard has also crafted 'Accent-soeur,' a compelling sound installation within Torre's elevator.
This auditory journey allows visitors to immerse themselves in the evocative soundtrack of 'Histoire(s) du cinéma,' an ambitious eight-part video series that unravels the multifaceted history of cinema through the artful fusion of films, philosophy, literature, and music.
Restaurant Torre: A Culinary and Architectural Delight
Restaurant Torre, situated on the sixth and seventh floors of Torre, offers a culinary journey within a captivating architectural setting. Designed by Rem Koolhaas, the restaurant seamlessly blends modern design elements with warm tones, creating an inviting atmosphere. The restaurant features artwork by renowned artists, adding an extra layer of cultural richness to the dining experience.
Lorenzo Lunghi, the Chef of Restaurant Torre, brings his Michelin-starred expertise to the kitchen, offering a gastronomic experience that complements the artistry of Fondazione Prada.
Ristorante Torre - Fondazione Prada, Milano Foto: Delfino Sisto Legnani e Marco Cappelletti Courtesy Fondazione Prada
Bar Luce: A Wes Anderson Fantasy
Designed by the acclaimed American film director Wes Anderson, Bar Luce recreates the ambiance of a typical Milanese café. Anderson's whimsical vision transforms this space into a charming oasis where patrons can dine, drink, converse, and read. Bar Luce's design pays homage to Milan's 1950s and 1960s aesthetics, creating a nostalgic yet contemporary atmosphere.
Fondazione Prada's Bar Luce, Restaurant Torre, and other architectural spaces are not just venues for artistic and culinary experiences—they are works of art in themselves, contributing to Milan's rich cultural landscape.
Bar Luce Designed by Wes Anderson Fondazione Prada Milano 2015 Photo Attilio Maranzano Courtesy Fondazione Prada
Fondazione Prada in Milan is a testament to the power of art and architecture to transform spaces and challenge perceptions. With its diverse range of exhibitions, innovative architectural design, and culinary delights, this institution offers a unique and immersive cultural experience. Whether you are an art enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a taste of Milan's cultural vibrancy, a visit to Fondazione Prada is a must. It's a place where the past meets the present, and creativity knows no bounds.