On the planet of inventive residences
We speak to alumni of Fabrica, with support from Benetton and the Design Museum's Designers in Residence program, about the appeal of a creative residence and how the experience has influenced their practice
The concept of artist-in-residence goes back to the early 20th century when art-loving benefactors offered artists studio spaces in which they could reflect, research and produce work outside of their usual surroundings. Over the past century, cheaper, faster travel options and the advent of the internet age have meant that the scope of these residences has expanded to include a range of different creative disciplines in locations around the world. For those outside of the residential scene, however, the true nature of these plans remains a bit of a mystery. So what exactly happens behind closed doors?
Founded in 1994 by Luciano Benetton, founder of United Colors of Benetton, and photographer Oliviero Toscani, Fabrica is one of the longest running and most popular residences in the world. The annual residence of the research center, based in the Italian province of Treviso, invites creatives under the age of 25 from around the world to take part in its Renaissance-inspired program.
Fabrica's remarkable list of alumni, known colloquially as Fabricante, speaks for the multidisciplinary character of the residence. The Fabrica Creative Labs ongoing virtual lecture series, launched during the pandemic, features lectures from former residents including illustrator Joshua Ray Stephens, artistic director Arianna Rinaldo, copywriter Andy P Smith, director Bradley Hasse, and stylist and creative director Deborah Latouche.
Above and above: Fabrica research center in Treviso, Italy