The picturesque landscapes of Trentino-Alto Adige often evoke images of cozy mountain huts and apple orchards. However, this region’s design scene is far more dynamic than its pastoral reputation suggests. The Sciscioré exhibition at Milan’s ADI Design Museum, curated by Anna Quinz, challenges these stereotypes by showcasing the region’s innovative design heritage.
The exhibition, which runs until June 28, 2026, features approximately 110 pieces that highlight the complexity of contemporary Alpine design. These objects, ranging from furniture to textiles, demonstrate the region’s diverse technical and artisanal skills. The unifying theme is play both as a design concept and a creative method.
The Significance of Play in Trentino-Alto Adige Design
The exhibition’s title, Sciscioré, comes from a Ladin word for marbles, reflecting the playful spirit of the showcased designs. Anna Quinz, the curator, noticed that many designers from the region share an interest in playfulness. Some have created toys or objects with strong ludic components, while others employ informal, playful methodologies in their work.
This focus on play has historical roots. Before the rise of mass tourism, the production of handmade toys was a significant part of the local economy. Families in isolated farms would craft wooden horses and dolls during the long winter months, which were then sold worldwide. This tradition represents an early form of design export, blending artisanal skills with local culture.
From Traditional Crafts to Avant-Garde Design
The exhibition features a diverse range of objects, from traditional crafts to avant-garde designs. Visitors can see pieces like the Krampus mask by Luca Pojer and the wooden doll by Judith Sotrifter, the last toy artisan in Val Gardena. Alongside these traditional crafts are iconic designs from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, such as Gianni Pettena’s Rumble sofa and Ettore Sottsass Jr.’s Tahiti lamp.
The exhibition also includes award-winning designs like the Masterlite ski boot by MM Design for Garmont, highlighting the region’s contribution to winter sports equipment. These pieces, along with others, illustrate the evolution of design in Trentino-Alto Adige, from traditional crafts to innovative, globally recognized creations.
The Legacy of Fortunato Depero
The exhibition also pays homage to Fortunato Depero, an artist from Val di Non who recognized the generative power of play. His manifesto, Ricostruzione futurista dell’universo, emphasized the role of play in sparking imagination. This influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary designers from the region, who continue to explore the creative potential of play.
For instance, Martino Gamper’s project, 100 Chairs in 100 Days, exemplifies this playful approach. Gamper’s work, along with others featured in the exhibition, demonstrates how playfulness can drive innovation and creativity in design.
