Designer Laila Gohar has unveiled a whimsical reinterpretation of a classic carousel, replacing its traditional figures with giant fruits and vegetables. This imaginative installation marks the debut of her first ready-to-wear collection, a collaboration with fashion brand Arket, showcased during Milan Design Week. The artwork, situated in Milan's Giardino delle Arti, has been lauded as a fusion of sculpture and interactive theatrical set, drawing considerable attention from attendees and embodying a shared fascination with gastronomy, playfulness, and the intrinsic beauty found in everyday elements.
The centerpiece of the exhibition is a historic German carousel, believed to originate from the late 18th century. It has been meticulously restored and adorned with intricate floral motifs and vibrant fairground lighting. Gohar's distinctive touch is evident in the innovative replacement of conventional carousel animals with large-scale, sculpted fruits and vegetables, including a radish, pear, aubergine, and fig, among others. This transformation not only celebrates Gohar's unique artistic vision but also aligns with the launch of her inaugural ready-to-wear line, with an Arket flag prominently displayed atop the carousel, symbolizing the partnership.
Gohar's design philosophy emphasizes creating immersive, accessible experiences. She aimed to foster an environment where individuals could physically interact with the installation, rather than merely observing it from a distance. The choice of a carousel for this project was deliberate, as Gohar articulated, citing its inherent familiarity, tangibility, and communal appeal. She expressed a long-standing attraction to the concept of beauty being readily available in daily life, often manifesting through moments of surprise and excitement, which made this collaboration feel entirely harmonious.
Before venturing into homeware, Gohar gained recognition for her surreal food sculptures. Her previous projects include a kitchenware collection for the Danish brand Hay and a notable installation at last year's Milan Design Week with Finnish brand Marimekko, which featured a monumental bed. Her latest collection with Arket, launched on April 21, continues to reflect her deep engagement with food design, incorporating items such as aprons and a work jacket. The photography for this exhibition was generously provided by Arket. The carousel will be accessible to the public from April 20 to April 24, 2026, at Giardino delle Arti, Via Aldo Palazzeschi, 00137 Rome, Italy, offering a delightful and engaging experience for all visitors.
This innovative installation perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Milan Design Week, showcasing the convergence of fashion, art, and design in a playful and engaging manner. Laila Gohar's collaboration with Arket not only promotes her new clothing line but also establishes a memorable landmark that encourages audience participation and interaction, redefining the boundaries of public art and fashion presentation.