Edition No. 104 of Pitti Uomo, held in Florence at the Fortezza da Basso from 13 to 16 June 2023, was based on the theme Pitti Games. The event, which welcomed several major fashion brands, had Eli Russell Linnetz, founder of ERL, as guest designer.

In the central square of the fortress, the artist has created an atmospheric film set. By installing a realistic bas-relief of the Statue of Liberty surrounded by scaffolding, Linnetz produced the illusion that the statue is slowly sinking.

The achievement of this outcome was made possible by the collaboration of two Italian companies, Polistudio Design and Innometal Italia. Polistudio Design specialises in the processing of polystyrene and polyurethane, while Innometal Italia specialises in metal finishes. The two companies permitted the fabrication of a sculpture that could be both lightweight and robust, employing a material such as polystyrene for the structural framework and copper and brass for the covering.

The Californian artist, who was invited to parade on the last day of the show, is defined as a multifaceted artist, a title that allows him to range with his imagination and lead him, in this case, to the creation of a project based on the idea of a dystopian future in which one can surf on what is now a sunken city.

The work, entitled Make Believe: The Making of Planet of the Apes, draws inspiration from the film of the same name, which explores the central themes of evolution and change. Similarly, innovation and renewal are also constantly sought after in the world of fashion.

The result, the combined work of the artist and Italian craftsmanship, has succeeded in giving shape and illusion to the Statue of Liberty. A further distinctive element is the materials used, which have enabled the details and shades of green and gold of the original statue to be recreated with precision, giving the structure a feeling of authenticity and an impression of monumentality, enhancing the craftsmen’s skills in transforming raw materials into works of art.

Even the unpredictable intervention of bad weather, which featured brief but heavy rainfall on the second day of the exhibition, unexpectedly contributed to the work’s appeal. The puddles created around the installation gave the statue an even more realistic appearance, accentuating the illusion of its slow sinking into the ground. This once again demonstrated the artisans’ capacity to create not only exquisite works of art but also durable pieces that could withstand the elements. It also confirmed the work’s pivotal role as the focal point of the entire event.

Indeed, the designer underscores the role of craftsmen in the creation of magic and dreams, emphasizing the public’s willingness to suspend disbelief. In addition, he emphasises the importance of the word ‘Make‘, explaining that for him Pitti has a strong connection with creation, i.e. making, of both clothes and handicrafts.

This indicates that the Make Believe installation not only encapsulated the essence of the 2023 theme, but also acknowledged the creative process, craftsmanship, and innovative techniques that have historically distinguished our region.