Ettore Sottsass's Photographic Metaphors at BDC28 in Parma

In celebration of Ettore Sottsass's centenary (Innsbruck, 1917 – Milan, 2007), BDC – BonanniDelRioCatalog in Parma is showcasing 'Le Metafore di Sottsass', featuring 50 black-and-white photographs captured during his travels from 1972 to 1978. The exhibition is organized into five thematic sections: 'Disegni per i destini dell’uomo', 'Disegni per i diritti dell’uomo', 'Disegni per le necessità degli animali', 'Fidanzati', and 'Decorazioni'. Each photograph serves as a page from a personal diary, connected by a hypothetical curve that symbolizes the bond between memory and personal history. Sottsass aimed to reconnect with the cosmos, emphasizing that reclaiming requires small, fundamental actions. The exhibition is hosted at BDC28, a repurposed 17th-century church in Parma's historic district. Thirteen images are temporarily lent to the Triennale di Milano, replaced by writings from associates like Massimo Minini and Aldo Cibic, which foster dialogue. These works reflect Sottsass's exploration of the deep connection between humanity and nature, utilizing light materials such as wood and fabric. The photographs’ evocative nature harmonizes beautifully with the exhibition space, regardless of the time of day.