“ill at ease” returns!

"ill at ease" Dysfunctional art: Beyond labels, curated by Studio Leggero, challenges the conventions of artistic categorization. Whether art, design, or augmented reality (AR), the pieces exhibited here break free from labels, seamlessly integrating into both the exhibition context and everyday life.

This new iteration of the "ill at ease" happening, created by Studio Leggero for the 2024 Fuorisalone, occupies part of the industrial space of Mosca Partners and fits into its Design Variations program. A former garage located on the Darsena (Navigli), in the heart of modern Milan, in the 5Vie design district, it is a unique location that has never been used for the Fuorisalone before.

"ill at ease” Dysfunctional art: Beyond labels is an immersive experience crafted to evoke both leisure and contemplation. Central to this exploration is the question: where does the line blur between collectible design and functional art? The artists selected for this project challenge conventional design paradigms by embracing the fluid intersection of art and function. They shun strict categorizations, advocating for the recognition of artistic endeavor even when intertwined with functionality. In a nod to the notion that, despite their practical utility, the exhibited pieces remain intricate artworks foremost, "ill at ease” Dysfunctional art: Beyond labels questions the notion that function turns art into design. Last, by encouraging viewers to engage with the physical and digital artworks as active participants, it seeks to deepen spark the feeling of something else than a showcase, somthing closer to Allan Kaprow's idea of a happening.

"ill at ease" is a condition of the body and mind, meaning to be uncomfortable, inhibited, and restless. Our "ill at ease" is therefore a restless soul that cannot remain still because it is always thirsty for something and hopes to influence the audience in this sense as well. To achieve this goal, we encourage them to momentarily step out of their comfort zone through works, performances, projections, VR, AR, etc., that are not immediately understandable from a conceptual and/or sensory point of view, nor integrable into a defined category.

With the first edition of "ill at ease," launched for the 2023 Fuorisalone, Studio Leggero partnered with ZERO and Valuart to create a five-day nomadic happening sponsored by Bombay Sapphire. Digital art, collectible design, world-famous artists, state-of-the-art technology, an eclectic itinerary, and an outdoor "salon" platform were the driving force behind this event, nominated for two Fuorisalone Awards, 'Technology' and 'Interaction'.