Nacho Carbonell's 'Memory, in Practice' Debuts at MAXXI Museum

On June 11, 2025, the MAXXI—National Museum of 21st Century Arts in Rome will unveil 'Memory, in Practice,' an exhibition by renowned Spanish designer Nacho Carbonell. Curated by Martina Muzi, this inaugural event of the ENTRATE program aims to intertwine the realms of design and personal memory, offering visitors an immersive experience that reflects on the layers of memory through innovative design techniques.

The exhibition features a striking seven-meter-tall tree structure crafted from fishing nets, symbolizing the deep connections between nature and memory that define Carbonell’s work. Visitors will encounter a thoughtfully designed space that encourages reflection, observation, and interaction, showcasing objects and furnishings that tell stories rooted in the designer’s childhood experiences in Valencia.

Carbonell, born in 1980 in Valencia, is known for his transformative approach to design, where memory acts as both a guiding principle and a dynamic element of creation. According to Carbonell, 'Memory is not just a static repository; it is a living instrument for design, engaging with reality and undergoing continuous regeneration.' This perspective is evident in how he merges natural elements with industrial materials, creating a fluid dialogue between the past and the present.

The ENTRATE program, spearheaded by Lorenza Baroncelli, seeks to enhance public engagement through design, transforming the museum's entrance into an interactive threshold between the urban environment and the artistic experience within. This initiative is part of MAXXI's broader mission to incorporate contemporary design into its collection, marking a significant shift in its operational focus since 2023.

The exhibition not only showcases Carbonell's unique artistic vision but also highlights the potential for design to evoke collective memories that resonate with the public. As Carbonell notes, 'Design rooted in personal history can expand to create new narratives that connect with the experiences of others.'

The interplay between memory and design in this exhibition serves as a reminder of how our environments shape and are shaped by our personal histories. The choice of materials and the architectural forms reflect Carbonell's exploration of the spaces from his youth, where memories of familial gardens and coastal landscapes inform his vision.

Through 'Memory, in Practice,' MAXXI aims to redefine the role of design within public spaces, fostering connections between visitors and the artworks that surround them. The exhibition will run until January 7, 2026, inviting the public to engage with the stories embedded in the design and to contribute their own narratives to the evolving dialogue between memory and materiality.

In conclusion, Carbonell’s work exemplifies how contemporary design can serve as a conduit for personal and collective memories, transforming static spaces into dynamic environments that invite reflection, interaction, and creativity. As audiences step into the world Carbonell has created, they will encounter not just objects, but the rich tapestry of experiences that inform them, ultimately shaping their understanding of memory in the context of design.