Kartell uses undisclosed AI-generated art as backdrop at Salone del Mobile

Italian furniture brand Kartell presented 25 new products at Salone del Mobile 2026 against AI-generated expressionistic paintings, without disclosing the use of artificial intelligence to visitors. The artworks, created by creative director Ferruccio Laviani, appear behind designs by Philippe Starck, Patricia Urquiola, Barber Osgerby, Ludovica Serafini + Roberto Palomba, and Erwan Bouroullec. Kartell global brand director Lorenza Luti stated the company has embraced AI since 2019, starting with Starck's A.I. Chair co-created with generative design software. The Lillybet chair by Serafini + Palomba features AI-designed jacquard upholstery. Luti described the AI-generated backdrops as a "natural evolution" and noted the stand was designed as a museum-like setting. Barber Osgerby's Savoia chair, made with minimal plastic using die-cast aluminium, marks the duo's first addition to Kartell's roster. The AI images appear on canvases, leaflets, and social media, with telltale anomalies like strangely shaped hands and feet. Salone del Mobile runs at Fiera Milano, Rho, Italy until 26 April. Kartell also launched its first collectible design exhibition space, Raritas, at the fair.