Enzo Mari

Enzo Mari, born in Novara in 1932. Studied literature and art at Milan's Academia Brera. Self-taught designer. As of 1956, works freelance as a designer and graphic designer for clients such as Danese, Driade, Gabbianelli and Zanotti. His work is just as concerned with social questions as with the aestetic issues. Radical in his ideas and subtle in his designs, he rejects the functionalist orthodoxy, as well as post-modern kitsch. Ambitiously wishes each of his works to contain a streak of utopia. As of 1963: has taught in Milan, Rome and Parma. Authored numerous books on the social functions of art and artists, on perception and design theory. Has won numerous international prizes and his works feature in major design collections the world over. He has also been involved in research projects, (also for municipalities), and has lectured and led courses on the history of art and architecture.

(1999)