Supervoid Creates Immersive Library Exhibition for Premio Strega

The exhibition “Uno, Cinque, Dodici. Ottant’anni del Premio Strega,” masterfully crafted by Supervoid, offers a compelling journey through the illustrious history of the Premio Strega, Italy’s most esteemed literary award. This unique display reimagines the concept of a library, presenting an 'ideal library' that houses over a thousand volumes, meticulously chosen from 1947 to the present. The design seamlessly weaves together the Prize’s seventy-nine editions, highlighting its pivotal events, key figures, debates, and public reception.

Experience the Legacy: Premio Strega Reimagined by Supervoid

A Unique Architectural Vision: The Pavilion as a 'Room Within a Room'

At the heart of the exhibition lies an innovative design concept: a central pavilion conceived as an autonomous structure, a 'room within a room.' This architectural marvel serves not only as a striking visual centerpiece but also as a dynamic exhibition device, capable of transforming its environment to reflect the diverse settings that have shaped the Premio Strega's history. Its interior spaces evoke a sense of intimacy and domesticity, utilizing carefully selected colors and textile surfaces that echo the foundational moments of the Prize and the vibrant community that fostered its birth.

Contrasting Aesthetics: From Intimacy to Abstraction

While the interior of the pavilion embraces a warm, familiar atmosphere, its exterior presents a stark contrast with an abstract and minimalist shell. This design choice is deliberate, intended to facilitate the display of books in a manner befitting a contemporary art museum. The juxtaposition of a cozy, historical interior with a modern, essential exterior creates a powerful visual dialogue, underscoring the Premio Strega’s journey from its intimate origins to its prominent place in contemporary culture.

Dynamic Interaction: Engaging Visitors Through Architectural Elements

The pavilion’s seemingly simple exterior is brought to life by a series of engaging elements. Inward-opening windows, displays of shortlisted books, and chronicles of past winners create a rhythmic articulation across its surfaces. The varying formats and designs of the winning book covers emerge from the aluminum planes, introducing a subtle visual vibrancy that enriches the overall ordered aesthetic. This interplay between abstraction, refined materials, and archival artifacts adeptly conveys the multifaceted nature of the Premio Strega, showcasing its evolution through private, public, and institutional domains.

An Interactive Journey: Activating the Exhibition Experience

Curated by Studio Supervoid, the exhibition prioritizes visitor interaction. As guests approach the pavilion, they are invited to engage with its interactive windows, opening them to reveal and activate the display within. This hands-on approach allows the exhibition to transform, offering ever-changing configurations that respond directly to the visitor’s participation. This dynamic engagement ensures a deeply personal and memorable exploration of the Premio Strega's enduring legacy.

Blending Display, Archive, and Architecture in a Singular Structure

Supervoid's ingenious design combines the functions of display, archive, and architecture into one cohesive structure. The project harmonizes display design with archival content and architectural innovation, offering a profound appreciation for the Prize's literary and cultural significance. The thoughtful integration of books directly into the pavilion's architectural skin further blurs the lines between exhibition space and presented content, creating an immersive historical narrative.