Bruno Munari and Enzo Mari: Design as Social Aesthetics

This course in social aesthetics explores the work of Bruno Munari and Enzo Mari, two great masters of 20th-century Italian design. Munari viewed design as integrating art, technology, and education, while Mari considered it an ethical-political practice with a critical approach to production and consumption. We will analyse their theories, their iconic works and design methodologies. Both considered childhood a pivotal period that transcended the boundaries between art, science, and design, recognising artistic creation and experimental research as integral parts of the design process. The course will relate their thinking to classical and contemporary design theories and the work of authors such as Rousseau, Marx, Benjamin, and Sloterdijk.

The course aims to develop a reflection on the relationship between art and design and on the deconstruction of the romantic vision of the artist-genius in favor of a figure who creates and designs in and for everyday life. It also intends to emphasize the contemporary relevance of Munari and Mari’s ideas on quality, durability, and design ethics in addressing sustainability challenges and promoting ecologically, socially, and politically conscious design practices.

In presence

The course includes lectures accompanied by image presentations. During the course, we will organize a study trip to visit the ADI Design Museum and the Italian Design Museum of the Triennale.

The exam will consist of a written paper (minimum 3000 words, maximum 7000 words) followed by a brief oral interview. The written paper should analyze one or more works by the authors covered in the course or discuss a theoretical topic discussed during the course. Note: Agreeing on the topic with the teacher and the assistant in advance is mandatory. You have the freedom to express your thoughts in a language you choose, such as Italian, English, French, or German.

• Milano, 08.09.24 - 08.09.24 (Optional)