The Fondo Ambiente Italiano (FAI) and MADWORKSHOP launched a studio at Villa Panza. Entitled “Light and Matter,” it centered around architecture, design, innovation, and research.

Riccardo Blumer, in collaboration with the Mendrisio Academy, worked with students to study the dynamics of light and its materialization, a topic closely tied to the identity of the Villa and its collection.

In order to develop this study, it was necessary to examine several exceptional archetypes, such as the chapels of the Sacro Monte (“Sacred Mountain”) in the town of Varese, to 3D print the quality of light as it is reflected and refracted by the structure. The directors of Villa Panza, who organized workshops and presentations of the developments and findings of the study, were involved in the coordination of the project.

The results of the project were presented at Villa Panza in an exhibition entitled “Light Theaters”, with specific workshops to enrich the programming of the institution. The workshops were open to students and members of the academic world.