BODY AND SPACE | DONDI JERSEY INDUSTRY PROJECT

The relationship between the body and space has always fascinated artists, philosophers, and designers, inspiring iconic creations in the worlds of dance, art, and fashion. From Oskar Shlemmer at the Bauhaus to Rudolf Laban, and even to the kinetic movements of Martha Graham, this fusion has given rise to extraordinary works. Even in the realms of sculpture and architecture, thinkers like Heidegger have theorized new perspectives on this intrinsic relationship.

In the contemporary context, artists and designers have dedicated themselves to exploring the connection between the body and space, with significant contributions from figures like Gianni Colombo and Nanni Strada. Notably, the philosopher Heidegger has revolutionized the way we perceive the relationship between space and the body.

In this ongoing exploration, a recent project presented an exciting challenge to students in the Master of Fabrics Innovation Design . Collaborating with Dondi Jersey, a textile company with a long history of innovation in the field, students were called upon to explore the potential of Jersey, a knitted fabric cherished for its comfort, elasticity, and adaptability to the body.

The project had a dual objective: to construct innovative and experimental research and to address the relationship between Jersey, the body, and space in a context extending beyond fashion, influencing interior design as well.

Students were encouraged to develop personal research based on the relationship between the body and space, drawing from the aforementioned inspirations and seeking new perspectives. Experimentation and material manipulation, along with an understanding of tension, elasticity, and the surface of Jersey, became pivotal in shaping a personal vision that could find applications not only in clothing and interior design but also in various other domains.

This project was made possible through a collaboration with Dondi Jersey S.p.a., a company founded in 1970 with a passion for quality and innovation in textiles. Their constant commitment to research and dialogue with world-renowned designers has significantly contributed to the landscape of both Italian and international fashion.

In conclusion, this captivating project has demonstrated how the relationship between the body, space, and textile material can be an endless source of inspiration and innovation. As students explore new possibilities with Jersey, they reveal the creative potential that can arise from this intrinsic connection, influencing not just the fashion world but also interior design and beyond.