MODÆ. Architettura, Fotografia, Grafica, Progetto e Sostenibilità

The Historical Archives of Politecnico di Milano host the exhibition MODÆ. Architecture, photography, graphics, design, sustainability, conceived to explore cultures and aspects of fashion that emerge from the archival and library collections of the University, or are connected to it through the personal and professional histories of the featured authors.

The exhibition is curated by professors Giovanni Maria Conti, Department of Design, and Roberto Dulio, Department of Architecture, Built Environment and Construction Engineering (ABC), with Paola Bertola, Federica Vacca, and in collaboration with the Campus Life Division of Politecnico di Milano.

The narrative unfolds across five thematic sections, displayed through panels and exhibition tables, and dedicated to figures such as Gianfranco Ferré and Renzo Piano; Marina Spadafora, advocate of ethical and sustainable fashion; Andrea Pfister, fashion designer; and Elsa Haertter, fashion photographer.

Fashion emerges here as a transversal language. Through archival materials, projects, images, and original objects, visitors are invited to discover how fashion is much more than clothing or accessories: it is cultural vision, design research, and social identity.
A reflection on fashion’s power to tell the story of the world, shift perspectives, and create connections across disciplines.

Visiting hours:

• Exhibition Hall: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
• Originals Room: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

To book special openings or guided tours for groups, please contact: archivio@polimi.it

MODÆ. Talk

On the occasion of the exhibition, the Historical Archives of the Politecnico di Milano are hosting a series of conversations inspired by the stories of the protagonists featured in the show. These talks invite reflection on the forms and cultures of fashion, offering new interpretations for both practitioners and designers, across different time periods.

Talk Schedule:

MODÆ. Talk – Marina Spadafora
May 13, 5:30 pm, Sala "Federico Bucci", Archivi Storici, Bovisa Durando Campus, via Candiani 72, Milan

The first event will feature Marina Spadafora, fashion designer, international educator, and spokesperson for ethical fashion, who received the Women Together Award (2015) for her ongoing commitment to uniting fashion, sustainability, and social responsibility.
She will be in conversation with Giovanni Maria Conti.

Following the talk, guests will have the opportunity to visit the exhibition, which includes original materials from the Marina Spadafora Archive, preserved by the Bovisa Candiani Library.

Registration is required at this link.

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MODÆ. Talk - Elsa Haertter: la fotografia, il viaggio, la moda

May 20, 5:30 pm, Sala "Federico Bucci", Archivi Storici, Bovisa Durando Campus, via Candiani 72, Milan

The second event will focus on the work of Elsa Haertter, a travel photographer who brought fashion beyond the confines of the studio. In the 1960s, she reimagined garments and places with exceptional creativity. Exotic cities and landscapes became the settings for her shots, where the patterns of the clothing highlighted the architecture and colors around them. These striking visual compositions were later recounted in the fascinating diaries of this visionary artist.
Marco Turinetto, professor in the Department of Design, will be in conversation with Giovanni Maria Conti.

Registration is required at this link.

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MODÆ. Talk - Gianfranco Ferré: Rita Airaghi e Gianfranco Ferré. Una lunga storia…

May 27, 5:30 pm, Sala "Federico Bucci", Archivi Storici, Bovisa Durando Campus, via Candiani 72, Milan

The third session will focus on the fashion designer Gianfranco Ferré.
It will be a journey through his life and career, told through anecdotes and valuable behind-the-scenes stories from his extensive professional path. Rita Airaghi, a long-time collaborator of the maestro since the brand's inception, will offer a unique and direct insight into the creative world of one of Italy’s greatest fashion icons.

Rita Airaghi, former Director of the Gianfranco Ferré Foundation, will engage in a conversation with Federica Vacca, Deputy Director of the Gianfranco Ferré Research Center.

Registration is required at this link.