“WHAT WE ACHIEVED – WHAT WE LOST” : reflections on Progress and Sacrifice The - Denim Première Vision
In the upcoming December edition of Denim Première Vision, two spaces, BLACK POINT and DAYLIGHT curated by OPAA—in collaboration with Denim Première Vision, will host a compelling installation titled “WHAT WE ACHIEVED – WHAT WE LOST”. This thought-provoking journey delves into the dual nature of achievement and loss, inviting reflection on a central question: What have we gained, and what have we sacrificed in this ongoing balancing act between progress and retreat?
As we navigate an increasingly structured world, we are constantly challenged by issues of social interaction, environmental sustainability, and basic survival. Our modern society is marked by paradoxes—from manufacturing weapons to secure peace, to deforesting natural ecosystems in pursuit of a “sustainable” diet. Such contradictions reveal our struggle to maintain physical and psychological balance amid the push and pull of progress. Have we lost the essence of time in exchange for a digital existence? And in this relentless pursuit of advancement, what treasures from the past are we abandoning?
The installation unfolds within two cultural spaces that celebrate diverse forms of expression and craftsmanship. Here, photographic narratives guide visitors through a reflective journey of personal achievements and sacrifices, addressing themes of equality, integration, sustainability, and the shared goals of preservation and recovery. It offers an immersive experience that links past, present and future.
At the heart of this journey is the Scuola di Restauro di Botticino. Through a temporary restoration lab, the school is dedicated to safeguarding the legacy of Italian haute couture and the art of textile conservation. Historically, textile preservation focused on antique tapestries and classical art, but today, the emphasis is shifting to preserving the archives of renowned fashion houses, revealing a renewed cultural awareness. This evolving perspective honors heritage not as museum artifacts but as a living legacy to be reinterpreted and woven into modern life.
WHAT WE ACHIEVED – WHAT WE LOST thus becomes more than a space for contemplation; it is a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between innovation and preservation—a testament to our shared humanity.
This space will also host IED Milano and Domus Academy, which will share insights from their students, offering a glimpse into a future built on knowledge.
Domus Academy — Think Further, Design Beyond
Founded in Milan in 1982, Domus Academy is a key institution in the Italian Design Movement, immersing students in the rich heritage of Italian design and fashion. As a forward-thinking center of design innovation, it nurtures a collaborative environment where students tackle future-oriented projects. Through its unique learning by doing approach, Domus Academy empowers talent to create visionary solutions and develop into well-rounded design professionals.
Now, Domus Academy’s innovative approach extends to the 2YMA and BA programs, incorporating cutting-edge techniques to ensure students acquire the expertise and adaptability needed to excel in a dynamic industry. These programs prepare students to address future challenges and seize emerging opportunities with confidence.
From BLACK POINT, visitors will move to the last show hall, the Denim Fashion District, a realm of shared experiences where relationships are built and exchanges are celebrated. Here, the value of the present moment is illuminated, as visitors appreciate both the beauty and complexity of contemporary life. This interconnected area reflects the intricate dynamics of modern living, inviting guests to ponder what it means to connect, achieve, and sustain meaningful relationships in an ever-evolving world.
The Fashion District becomes a stage for reflection on both gains and losses, a place to engage with others and experience the vibrant interplay of community and individuality. It encourages visitors to embrace the present while acknowledging the journey that brought us here, as well as the challenges and hopes that lie ahead.