Salone del Mobile 2017: Design as Political Act in Milan

The 56th edition of Salone del Mobile in Milan, themed 'Design is a state unto itself. And Milan is its capital,' transforms the design fair into a platform for political and social commentary. Under-30 collective Raumplan presents 'Capitalism is Over' at Cascina Cuccagna, a parody farewell to capitalism featuring iconic products from the Trente Glorieuses (1945-75) like Olivetti typewriters, contrasted with contemporary successors shaped by crisis and new business models. At BASE in Zona Tortona, Berlin architecture group raumlabor installs 'Forms of Turmoil,' inflatable protest signs for local activists. The 'Design Nomade' exhibition, curated by Stefano Mirti, addresses migration with Marta Monge's 'A comprehensive guide to Illegal Border Crossings' booklet and Pietro Quintino Sella's multifunctional 'Motherpack' backpack. Other works explore digital nomadism, including Gerardo Osio's Japanese-inspired kit, Elena Bompani's portable house, and Emmy Polkamp's pop-up hotel for abandoned spaces. Dutch collective Connecting The Dots and Scuola Civica Interpreti e Traduttori Altiero Spinelli present 'Languages of Design,' featuring over 50 international design studios, arguing that mass-produced objects reflect national cultures, hinting at a return to localism.