Art Basel Miami is not just about art, but also about fashion, music, and design. Istituto Marangoni Miami (IMM), the Florida branch of the Milan-based design school, made a statement at this year’s event with a series of events and initiatives. IMM CEO and president Hakan Baykam sat down with FashionNetwork.com to discuss how the institution is establishing itself as a fashion authority in the region.
IMM hosted a variety of events during Art Basel Miami, including a conversation with designer Francisco Costa on his new book, a panel discussion on sustainability and innovation, a cocktail event with Kartell to announce a design competition, and a special event on campus to celebrate the opening of Kid Cudi’s pop-up in collaboration with The Webster. These events not only aimed to raise awareness of IMM but also provided valuable learning opportunities for students.
A notable collaboration during Art Basel Miami was with musician Kid Cudi and his Members of the Rage (MOTR) collection. The pop-up at IMM showcased MOTR’s first clothing line, with all proceeds from sales going towards the IMM Scholarship fund. Baykam praised Kid Cudi’s modern vision, which aligns with IMM’s goal of redefining fashion and luxury. The president and CEO expressed his pride in the collaboration and its inspiring effect on students.
Despite opening shortly before the pandemic, IMM has experienced significant growth in the past two years. Baykam highlighted a 50% increase in new students, a 44% increase in faculty members, and a 75% rise in active classes. The school is also expanding its programs, with plans to launch four new interior design programs in early 2024.
Baykam emphasized the importance of preparing students to excel as both designers and business professionals. IMM’s educators, who have industry experience, understand the challenges faced by designers and creatives. The school also provides opportunities for students to participate in competitions and industry projects, preparing them for the ever-evolving fashion landscape.
One such competition involved collaborating with Brazilian shoe legend Alexandre Birman. Six finalist designs were chosen, and the top two winners were awarded a trip to Birman’s design headquarters and a two-week internship. This collaboration reflects the demographics of the IMM student population, with 50% of students coming from Latin American countries.
Baykam discussed how the vibrant energy of Miami, particularly from the Latin American community, inspired him to establish the school in the city. The diverse student body, with 80% from international backgrounds, contributes to a unique educational experience. The recently introduced Masters of Styling program showcases this cultural blend, with students expressing pride in their origins through creative photoshoots.
In the post-Covid landscape, Miami has become a desirable destination for U.S. students, further enhancing the appeal of attending IMM. The combination of living in the dynamic city of Miami and receiving a top-notch education positions IMM as a transformative force in the fashion and design industry, solidifying Miami’s status as a fashion destination.
The success and growth of IMM demonstrate the institution’s commitment to providing students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for the challenges and opportunities in the fashion industry. As Art Basel Miami continues to evolve and attract diverse industries, Istituto Marangoni Miami will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the fashion and design landscape of the region.
Useful Links:
– Istituto Marangoni Miami
– Art Basel Miami
