Thom Browne, renowned for his avant-garde approach to fashion, unveils his latest creation, “…TIME TO SLEEP…,” at the prestigious Palazzina Appiani during Milan’s April 2024 Salone del Mobile. Browne’s artistic vision, characterized by themes of the sublime, repetition, and individuality through uniformity, takes center stage in this surreal installation. Drawing inspiration from eclectic sources such as the Bauhaus concept of gesamkunstwerk and fairy tales like Cinderella, Browne challenges traditional design codes to redefine modern culture.
In performance “…TIME TO SLEEP…,” Browne transforms the neoclassical elegance of Palazzina Appiani into an unexpected venue for rest and contemplation. The grandeur of the Hall of Honor serves as a backdrop for six simple mid-century cots adorned with custom Thom Browne by Frette bedding. As performers dressed for sleep arrive, they reject traditional slumber and instead opt for Browne’s signature grey reinterpretation of the mid-century office uniform, preparing themselves for the work of their dreams.
The performance unfolds as participants embark on their dreamlike journey, escorted by sounds of slumber and lullabies. As they rest, a curious synchronicity emerges between the mundane activity of their naps and the symmetrical environment of the Napoleonic-era space, encouraging viewers to reflect on how clothing influences public perception and behavior. This captivating experience highlights Browne’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of fashion and art, inviting viewers to explore the intersection of dreams and reality.
“…TIME TO SLEEP…” builds upon Browne’s previous explorations of repetition and uniformity, echoing his past performance art endeavors. Notably, his 2009 presentation at Pitti Uomo Immagine in Florence featured 40 identical desks and clerks engaged in synchronized typing, marking his introduction to European audiences. Browne’s designs, recognized for their precision tailoring and American sensibility, have earned him numerous accolades, including multiple CFDA Menswear Designer of the Year Awards and the Cooper Hewitt National Design Award.
