Dolce&Gabbana’s Gen D fosters a creative exchange

Gen D goes bigger. For the second consecutive year, designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana are strengthening their collaboration with young talents, unveiling the Dolce&Gabbana Gen D vol.2 project. Building upon the success of the 2023 pilot initiative, this project continues to serve as a cultural bridge between designers and Made in Italy craftsmanship. Curator Federica Sala embarked on a journey around the world to discover the 11 talents, whose creations are now showcased at the Maison’s headquarters on Via Broggi until April 21. Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana delved into the details of this project in an interview with MFF.

Last year, Gen D represented an initiative that is now evolving into a sustained project. What values is the second chapter of this idea reinforcing?

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana: Gen D – Generation designers was born last year out of our desire to expand our philosophy of cultural patronage, which began with fashion, to the field of design, with an emphasis on the future, young talents, and their ideas. It is a dynamic and stimulating initiative for both us and the selected talents (11 this year, ed.), who will have the opportunity to engage and experiment freely with the artisanal traditions of our heritage, fostering a creative exchange with the essence of our brand. Their works bring to life new aesthetics that combine Italian savoir-faire with the diverse manufacturing and cultural backgrounds of their home countries.

This year’s participants come from all over the world, and they are (even) younger. When is it most interesting to tap into their creativity?

D.D and S.G: There is no fixed formula. Everyone follows their own path, and it is highly subjective. What matters is having a story to tell, a passion to share. Every idea and inspiration requires the proper time to grow, evolve, and become a reality.

How were these new interpreters for Dolce&Gabbana selected?

S.G: Once again this year, we relied on the support and extensive expertise of Federica Sala, who, in her role as project curator, carefully selected designers under 40 from across the globe: Europe, America, Asia, and Africa. Recognizing their potential and unique identities, she established individual relationships and constructive dialogues with each of them, catering to their desires and allowing them to fully engage with and further enhance the excellence of craftsmanship.

They explore universal themes such as cultural connections and the elements of nature, which serve as focal points for conceptual reflection. Have they addressed themes that have surprised you?

D.D and S.G: Art serves as a mirror to reality, a powerful means of expression. Through songs, paintings, garments, or design objects, people are able to convey their feelings. These young talents have effectively voiced their identities, reflections, concerns, and aspirations through art. It has been truly fascinating to discover their vision and to see things from their perspective.

What aspect of their approach to Italy impressed you the most? They incorporate Italy’s renowned craftsmanship, such as glasswork and mosaics, into their projects.

S.G: Over the past few months, the participants had the opportunity to explore various regions of Italy, immersing themselves in the rich tradition of local crafts, from historic artisanal mills to the delicate art of blown glass, metal enameling, and ceramic and glass mosaics. They worked alongside artisans in their workshops, and they also discovered aspects of Dolce&Gabbana that not everyone knows, such as our in-house painting atelier.

D.D: Italy boasts an incredible artistic heritage, with each region possessing its own distinct history and culture, setting it apart from others. What struck us the most was how these designers integrated the richness of Made in Italy with their cultural backgrounds.

Material and craftsmanship. How much more is there to uncover about these elements, and how do they aid young talents in their journey?

S.G: «Handmade» is our distinctive feature, a value that we have meticulously cultivated day by day, shaping our history and global image. However, we still have a lot to learn. Each year, through our Grand Tour of Haute Couture, we meet master artisans from diverse backgrounds, immersing ourselves in the atmosphere of their workshops and involving them in every aspect of our creative process.

D.D: We are proud of our roots, but we are also aware of the reality in which we live. It is critical to strike a balance between tradition and innovation. We want to convey the value of the human touch while always looking to the future. It is essential to always have new insights, perspectives, and ideas. It is like exploring new paths every time while remaining rooted in a solid tradition that must be preserved and passed down.

Why is it important to pass down artisanal knowledge through generations? And how do vocational schools contribute to applying these skills in contemporary contexts?

S.G: Craftsmanship represents an ancient value that must be passed down to future generations to preserve its legacy. Without firm roots, there can be no future. The passage of time reminds us of the importance of safeguarding our country’s traditions so that they can become heritage for generations to come.

D.D: In 2012, we launched a project close to our hearts, «Botteghe di Mestiere», an in-house training initiative aimed at imparting the knowledge and technical skills of tailoring to the next generation. Upon completion, participants are provided with tangible opportunities for integration into the working world.

What are the highlights of Dolce&Gabbana Casa latest collection?

D.D and S.G: Maiolica has long been a distinctive theme for us, a testament to our passion for Sicily’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. Over time, it has been expressed in various colors, this year in green. Among other novelties this year is the Dreaming collection, presented in black and white. The strength of this collection lies in the juxtaposition of these contrasting elements, with geometric and soft lines expressing confidence, comfort, and elegance. (All rights reserved)