Mailano Designweek 2022 with MATTER of COURSE at 5VIE

On the occasion of Milan Design Week 2022, the new, Berlin-based all-female design collective MATTER of COURSE makes its international debut with the group exhibition “Ich und Du.” The curatorial duo Anava Projects conceived a special thematic concept for the event, inviting the collective’s eleven designers to create work that reflects on the relationship between the self and others. The resulting exhibition, Ich und Du, will be presented from June 7-12 as part of 5VIE Design Week, and is supported by pioneering natural cosmetic brand DR. HAUSCHKA. Ich und Du features objects handcrafted in glass, wood, clay, textiles, metal, and water, presented in a series of unexpected vignettes that encourage each of us to consider the art—and power—of interaction, both with our fellow humans and the natural environment. The exhibition takes its name from philosopher Martin Buber’s 1923 essay, Ich und Du (I and Thou), in which Buber posits that “All actual life is encounter.” At the heart of his text, Buber urges readers to overcome this divisive notion of “the other” to fulfill the potential of our humanity, find happiness, and bring about justice. Curators ANAVA PROJECTS note: “Against the backdrop of the past few years, our interconnectedness with one another has taken on a new sense of urgency. At a time when both human rights and our environment are under great threat, we can find ourselves at a great distance from one another, both physically and metaphorically. Every one of us is called to reflect upon our own responsibilities within our local and global communities. By bridging divides, we create space for change, and even, perhaps, new versions of ourselves. This exhibition is intended to spark reflection on the spaces between us—and the connections that bind us together.”

MATTER of COURSE is a collective founded in 2021 by 11 female designers with individual studios in Berlin. MoC operates at the dynamic intersection of design, art, and craftsmanship, priding themselves on years of experience, a shared work ethic, and the determination to break new ground. MoC strongly believes that mutual support and interdisciplinary exchanges will pave the way to our future success, and that it is only when we act as a community that we can grow and actively drive the design world’s urgently-needed change in values. The collective is committed to upholding traditional craftsmanship techniques by refining them; to a responsible use of resources and the fair remuneration of all those involved in the production process; and to an earnest and innovative approach to materials. Whether through exhibitions, publications, panels, or interdisciplinary collaborations, MoC aims to challenge concepts that are taken for granted while inspiring a strong sense of community and sustainable consuming practices.

ANAVA PROJECTS was founded by longtime collaborators Anna Carnick and Wava Carpenter. Together and individually, they have spent the last 15+ years bringing design to life for international audiences. From exhibitions to events, special projects, and editorial for some of today’s most respected creative outlets, the pair is dedicated to nurturing the global design community. Recent clients and collaborators include Design Miami/, Carpenters Workshop Gallery, the Miami Design District, Studio Proba, Berlin University of the Arts, and others. The duo’s work is informed by a strong belief that good design can and should make a positive social impact.

Thank you to DR. HAUSCHKA, CRÉATION BAUMANN and KOLONNE NULL for the support.