Daruma.lab: A New Art and Creativity Laboratory in Milan

Daruma.lab is the new project born from the shared vision of Anna Spreafico, illustrator and IED alumna, and Lorenzo Duina, her partner and colleague. What was initially intended to be a personal studio and workspace for both of them quickly evolved into a public space for events, courses, and workshops, creating a dedicated hub for art, culture, openness, and dialogue that has already engaged the residents of Isola, a vibrant Milanese area.

"We wanted to open the laboratory to the neighbourhood and the city to create a reference point for art, creativity, and the exchange of ideas", Anna explains. As a first step, Daruma.lab involved 30 young artists, over half of whom are IED alumni, to create their own interpretation of the studio's mascot, the daruma. These works were gathered in an illustration exhibition titled Fall Seven Times, drawing inspiration from a famous Japanese proverb associated with the daruma. The proverb roughly translates to "fall down seven times, get up eight," encouraging perseverance in pursuing personal goals.

The daruma was chosen as the symbol of the laboratory for its iconic representation of perseverance and determination in achieving objectives, as well as its connection to the world of drawing. In fact, a distinctive feature of the daruma is its initial lack of eyes, which are later added to express a wish or set a goal. This visual representation is a constant reminder of what we desire and aim to achieve. "The daruma represents the fusion of our individual experiences as illustrators and creatives, united by the desire to create a space for connection and dialogue," emphasizes Lorenzo.

Despite the diverse techniques and approaches, from digital to traditional drawing, they have created a unified expression that materializes in their brand. Daruma.lab is not just a space but a name, logo, and image. "We aim to reach a broad audience", explain the two artists, "starting from the realities of the Isola and Dergano neighbourhoods, which are highly active and attentive to artistic activities, and expanding to reach people throughout the city and beyond, involving artists from around the world".

The laboratory will host various activities and events for all age groups, from children to adults, and a series of exhibitions open to everyone. Furthermore, there will be an always-open shop inside the laboratory where visitors can purchase products and prints created by Anna and Lorenzo.

Daruma.lab represents a new focal point for artists and art enthusiasts in Milan, a place that fosters inspiration, sharing, and creative growth. With its name and iconic image, Daruma.lab is poised to enrich the city's cultural life.

Visit Daruma.lab in Via Luigi Biraghi, 18, 20159 Milano MI, Italy