Milan Design Week is renowned for its cutting-edge displays and innovative collaborations, and this year's event promised to be truly memorable with the debut of Dermophonic at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milano, located within the 5VIE district in Milan. Born from a partnership between the Italian designer Matteo Cibic and Italian musician Elasi, Dermophonic took participants on an emotional journey by creating their sound portraits, intertwining art, music, and conceptual design, complemented by coffee flavours.

The installation offered a unique experience that delved into the depths of human connection and expression. Designed as an invitation to a captivating performance where participants stepped into a soundproofed cocoon, they were asked, "What dream would you like to live?"

Cibic and Elasi released an intriguing video that provided a visual companion to their collaborative project. Set against the backdrop of a sound-isolated room adorned with sumptuous blue and silver silk curtains embroidered with Cibic's distinctive patterns—similar to the soft sculptures he made for miart Milano—the scene is one of enchanting intimacy. Elasi is seen strumming a futuristic guitar-like instrument crafted by Cibic and her music echoes the depths of the participant's soul. Meanwhile, Cibic emerges from behind the curtains with a notepad and pen, ready to capture the essence of the moment in a fluid stroke of his artistic vision. The participant holds a cup of coffee, completing the tableau—a perfect fusion of sight, sound and sensory delight, encapsulating the essence of Dermophonic's immersive experience.

Cibic's inspiration for Dermophonic stemmed from his fascination with the intricacies of human identity and expression. "The idea came after reading a series of books concerning different ways of creating portraits," he told STIR. "It became a way to study and to understand some deeper aspects of people, as well as to experiment with how drawing can be inspired by music."

Collaborating with Elasi was instrumental in bringing Dermophonic to life. Also known as Elisa Massara, she is a versatile artist whose music traverses diverse landscapes of sound and emotion. A trained classical guitarist with a background in electronic music production, her unique blend of styles added an ethereal dimension to Cibic's visual narratives. Together, they crafted a representation where sound and imagery meet to create moments of profound resonance.

Central to the Dermophonic experience is the active engagement of participants, whose dreams and desires shape the unfolding narrative and the resulting artwork. "The participants are not just observers but integral to the experiment," Cibic emphasised. "It is certain to evolve throughout the week, taking us in unexpected directions." This fluidity invited spontaneity and serendipity, ensuring that each interaction was as unique as the individuals involved, making them a valued part of this project.

Cibic highlights the transformative power of viewing a person through the lens of different soundtracks, enabling varied experiences and fostering unique connections. Immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the roastery, he found himself captivated by the diverse array of individuals who frequent the establishment. Drawing parallels to the enchantment of Willy Wonka's factory, he observed the bustling scene with a sense of wonder and curiosity. Inspired by literary figures such as Alessandro Baricco's Mr Gwyn (2011) and Gianni Rodari's Baron Lamberto (from Lamberto, Lamberto, Lamberto, 1978) he was drawn to the idea of capturing portraits that transcend traditional boundaries, merging sound and drawing in a collaborative endeavour. With the involvement of singer Elasi, he envisioned an experiment in emotional sharing, where the dreams and aspirations of strangers are revealed and brought to life through art and music.

For Cibic, Dermophonic represents more than just a singular event—it is a reflection of his broader creative philosophy and approach to design. "Design serves as a tool for discovering the world, connecting with people, and exploring alternative approaches to problem-solving," he added. With his experimental lab, Matteo Cibic Studio, he has spent over 15 years pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. His playful, anthropomorphic objects invite viewers to reconsider the relationship between form and function.

As visitors flocked to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milano from April 16 to 20 during Milan Design Week 2024, they were treated to a sensory feast. Inside the Arriviamo Bar, amidst the whirring of coffee grinders and the heady aroma of freshly brewed espresso, Dermophonic presented its visual language characterised by art, music, and human connection. Here, in the heart of Milan's vibrant design scene, participants discovered that dreams are not merely figments of the imagination—they are the raw material from which a conceptual art experience is woven.

In a world where reality and fantasy are increasingly blurring, Dermophonic offered a transformative experience. It put together a realm where dreams took flight and creativity roamed freely.

STIR is a media partner with 5vie Design Week.

Stay tuned to STIR's coverage of Milan Design Week 2024which showcases the best of exhibitions, studios, designers, installations, brands and events to look out for. Explore EuroCucina and all the design districts—Fuorisalone, 5vie Design Week, Isola Design Week, Brera Design District and Porta Venezia Design District.