In the main atelier of Milan Design Week 2023, MAD Architects, in collaboration with Interni, Axa Immobilaire, and Alts, have revealed their installation entitled "Momentum."
The 8-meter by 12.5-meter iron cube structure sits evocatively at an angle of 45 degrees from its base. The architects, led by Ma Yansong, explain the simple nature of the cube is used as a carrier to undertake different forms of art expression. The cube consequently presents itself as a continuously changing art form in its own right.
In the daytime, the ETFE polymer skin of the cube reflects the surrounding environment of the courtyard of Statale University. At night, the installation transforms into something transparent and ethereal, with lighting from inside bringing forth a new character.
Lighting is key to the concept, with the installation featuring fixtures from Luce&Light. Travi lighting fixtures are meanwhile situated beneath the triangular base of the cube and programmed to pulse at regular intervals.
Beyond the powerful visual, Momentum integrates new technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) to offer a more immersive experience of the installation by scanning a Q-code on Instagram.
This installation marks the fifth participation of MAD Architects at Milan Design Week. With the end of the COVID pandemic, the architects explain they have placed more consideration on communication and the interchange of multiculturalism this year. Past works exhibited at Milan Design Week by MAD Architects include Invisible Border 2016, Fifth Ring 2018, Freedom 2021, and Dynamik Chair & Threatd Chair 2022.
Momentum will remain open and available for viewing from 10 am to midnight daily through April 23, 2023, and from April 24-26 until 10pm.
