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Dries Van Noten on the Meaning Found in Making

Time Sensitive
In this episode, Dries Van Noten discusses his newly opened Fondazione in Venice, a space dedicated to celebrating craft and beauty. He reflects on his journey from the Antwerp Six to establishing this foundation, emphasizing the importance of handmade objects and the emotional power of beauty in a fragmented world.
Van Noten explains his choice of Venice for the foundation, detailing the history of the Palazzo Pisani Moretta and his acquisition of a former studio for restoration. The debut exhibition, 'The Only True Protest Is Beauty,' is curated from memory, mixing established and emerging artists to create a cohesive narrative that avoids nostalgia. He emphasizes the importance of craftsmanship, including modern tools and improvisation, and reflects on the emotional impact of the exhibition on visitors. Van Noten also discusses his upbringing in a family of retailers and tailors, his time at the Antwerp Royal Academy, and the creative energy of the Antwerp Six. He contrasts past fashion revolutions with the present and shares plans for his foundation, focusing on curiosity and hospitality. Additionally, he reflects on formative trips to Japan, working with Indian artisans to preserve embroidery techniques, and how his garden became a source of patience and acceptance for his career.
00:01
00:01
Beauty is a sustaining power.
05:54
05:54
Venice was a city we initially avoided but fell in love with.
14:36
14:36
Beauty is deeply personal and evolving.
43:12
43:12
Fashion shows are about tension and magic.
53:19
53:19
Keeping these crafts alive is essential.
55:07
55:07
Nature doesn't wait and flowers don't always bloom as planned.