Renato Barilli Remembers Alessandro Mendini as a True Postmodernist

Renato Barilli, professor emeritus at the University of Bologna, pays tribute to Alessandro Mendini, who recently passed away. Barilli argues that Mendini embodied postmodernism fully, representing an alternative Italian architectural tradition that challenged Bauhaus rigor and Adolf Loos's condemnation of ornament. This lineage traces back to Balla and Depero, passed to Gio Ponti, and was revived by Mendini in close collaboration with Ettore Sottsass Jr. Mendini championed color over monochrome, small-scale over monumental architecture, and defended kitsch as a source of surprise. He prioritized sensory satisfaction and comfort in everyday objects like coffeepots, cutlery, and soft armchairs. Mendini pursued these goals through Studio Alchimia and as editor of prestigious magazines. Barilli also thanks Mendini for supporting the annual prize in memory of Francesca Alinovi, whom Mendini had welcomed as a collaborator.