WE PRESENT STONE ARCHIVE, AN INSTALLATION
THAT EXPLORES THE VOLCANIC ORIGIN OF OUR
NEW COLLECTION AT ALCOVA, MILAN.
We present “Stone Archive”, an installation that explores the volcanic
origin of our new collection at Alcova Milan, Viale Molise, 62.
Our new series of light sculptures named “Ambra Toba” combines
volumes of ancient stones and aluminium. Centerpiece is the Mexican
“Toba volcánica” stone that consists of minerals, glass and volcanic
debris ejected one million years ago during severe eruptions.
Fragments in the geometrical surfaces are testament to these
explosions and movement. The contrast between porous textures and ...
smooth dark red underlines the studios contemporary approach on traditional materials and craft.
“Ambra Toba” light sculpture are made out of volcanic dust and aluminium.
The connecting components between the sculptural stone elements and the aluminium parts originate from an intensive research of linking unique handmade shapes with industrial parts. Each piece is crafted and assembled in Mexico.
Our philosophy is to use stone in many of our light sculptures, something solid linked to a source of light, something fading and intangible. This collection embodies this duality in a timeless aesthetic.
The studio reflects on its research-based process and investigation. Tall archival shelves filled with stones, folders and prototypes allow the light sculptures to connect with the visual journey of their own design evolution and frame the exhibition space. Visitors are invited to take single archive folders with them, an interaction that underlines the ephemeral character of the installation.
The concept of our Archive is born out of the interest to amplify our understanding on ancient stones. A space that captures and connects science, aesthetics, culture and materiality. The archive allows visitors to pause and visualize time in a tangible way. An ancient science of explosions, debris, ashes and dust, millions of years speaking through textures.
In partnership with the department of Geology of the National Autonomous University of Mexico “UNAM”, an investigation on the origins of “Toba volcánica” opened a deeper insight on a stone that is widely used in Mexican culture. The stone has the false common name “Cantera” (Spanish word for quarry) and there is no public understanding of its origin and composition. This scientific investigation is driven by the studio´s strong desire to research materials and share public knowledge.
Dutch microphotographer Wim van Egmond documented the stones in a series of artistic videos and panoramic photos that elevate the investigation and further balances science and design.
“Stone Archive” will be part of the itinerant platform of Alcova during Milan Design Week and is located in the former slaughterhouse in the historical quarter of Porta Vittoria Abattoir, at Viale Molise, 62.
The installation features a wide range of collaborations that share the discourse on earth explosions. Research of the National Autonomous University of Mexico and work of Dutch microphotographer Wim van Egmond, Mexican chocolate manufacturer Cuna de Piedra, design studio SAVVY, filmmaker Wolf Lass, Portuguese fashion Brand Naus, food designer Philipp Kolmann and writer Alexander Slotnick will be part of the installation.
Part of the collaborative series is an evening event with the presentation of the “Stone Chocolate” developed for this project by Mexican chocolate manufacturer Cuna de Piedra” at 19:00 of at Terroir Milan, Via Macedonio Melloni, 33.
