From the strict geometry of objects to emotional and socially oriented solutions – this is how Italian design and its influence on society have evolved over the past 30 years. The evolution is on full display at the international exhibition «The Languages of Time in Design,» which has opened in Astana. The exhibition covers the period from 1995 to 2026 and is divided into eight thematic cycles. Each reflects the character of its era. The works on display combine aesthetics, technology, and everyday life. According to the project’s author and curator, Italian architect and designer Marco Poletti, the exhibition in Kazakhstan’s capital marks a new stage in promoting contemporary Italian culture in Central Asia. He noted that such projects help strengthen cultural dialogue and build new ties between the regions. Notably, the exhibition was previously showcased in Almaty and Bishkek.
«This exhibition demonstrates how Italian design not only follows trends but often stays ahead of them, setting new directions. The exhibition has also become a platform for bringing together two cultures – Italian and Kazakh. Italian tradition is closely associated with object and product design, while Kazakh tradition focuses more on interior design and creating harmonious spaces. Here, these approaches intersect, complement one another, and create opportunities for new interaction. This is an excellent opportunity for dialogue between the two cultures,» said designer and exhibition curator Marco Poletti.
«The main message - of course, this is an exhibition focused on design, but it is also done into a university of arts. We attach great importance to the academic collaboration. Why? Because we address our message, our skills, our willingness to expand the relations to the young generations, because if we grow together, we will have the chance to have even better relations than now, that are already excellent,» noted Ambassador of Italy to Kazakhstan Antonello De Riu.
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