Architect Lina Ghotmeh is poised to unveil her latest creation, 'Metamorphosis in Motion,' a captivating labyrinthine installation that will grace the courtyard of Milan's Palazzo Litta during the highly anticipated Milan Design Week. This marks Ghotmeh's inaugural site-specific outdoor solo endeavor in Italy, a work profoundly inspired by the rich history of the palace itself, manifesting as a striking pink maze. Commissioned for the annual MoscaPartners Variations exhibition, which will transform the baroque Palazzo Litta into a hub for international designers, the installation promises to be a focal point.
Ghotmeh elaborates on her vision, stating, "Metamorphosis unfolds through interaction. The courtyard evolves from a mere entry point to a communal space, from a static representation to an active participation, weaving together space, memory, and experience into a unified, fluid architectural narrative." The design employs shifting perspectives, fluid geometric forms, and a deliberate sequential pathway to create 'Metamorphosis in Motion,' aptly named for its transformative effect on the courtyard. Ghotmeh further explains, "We contemplated the courtyard's dual function as both a thoroughfare and a symbolic space — an interstitial realm designed to direct movement and heighten sensory engagement." She adds that the installation is a playful labyrinth, activating the courtyard without altering its fundamental structure, introducing a contemporary layer that offers visitors a moment of tranquil contemplation amidst the vibrant energy of design week. Visualizations depict a labyrinth of screens and seating, rendered in a bold cerise-pink hue, exuding a monolithic presence.
MoscaPartners envisions 'Metamorphosis in Motion' as the dramatic and conceptual heart of the exhibition, occupying the entire central courtyard. Caterina Mosca, founder of MoscaPartners, emphasizes, "Our installations for this unique venue have always transcended mere backdrops, serving as conceptual gateways that dictate the exhibition's rhythm and mood, transforming into vibrant spaces where human involvement becomes an intrinsic part of the artwork." She concludes, "With 'Metamorphosis in Motion,' Lina brilliantly encapsulates the synergy between our research and that of the exhibitors: an approach that extends beyond the tangible object to embrace notions of renewal and adaptability." According to MoscaPartners, the labyrinth's distinct modules will delineate various zones, offering diverse avenues for engaging with the 'Metamorphosis in Motion' installation.
This innovative installation follows last year's transformation of the courtyard by South Korean architect Byoung Soo Cho, who introduced red gravel in his European debut. Lina Ghotmeh, recognized by Time magazine as one of the world's 100 most influential rising stars last year, continues to shape the architectural landscape, having designed the Bahrain Pavilion for Expo 2025 Osaka and currently undertaking the renovation of a section of the British Museum in London. Her work consistently pushes boundaries, fostering a deeper connection between people and their built environment, enriching cultural dialogues, and inspiring new perspectives on space and interaction.