Enrico Baleri on Design, Authenticity, and the Crisis of Italian Industry

Enrico Baleri, founder of Alias and Baleri Italia, has published 'Giuro – 1' (Silvana Editoriale, 2016), a book born from his Facebook series 'Perline.' In an interview with Artribune, Baleri discusses the evolution of Italian design, the decline of the Salone del Mobile, and the disappearance of the 'cultured entrepreneur.' He argues that design is a partnership between designer and entrepreneur, but today managers and investment funds prioritize short-term profits over heritage. Baleri criticizes the loss of authenticity, the rise of kitsch, and the lack of a comprehensive design archive. He praises Facebook as a platform for constructive critique and shares anecdotes about encounters with Bob Dylan, Salvador Dalí, and Andy Warhol. The book, first of a planned four-volume series, collects memories of Milan's past and reflections on taste and aesthetics.