We’re checking in @Home with… Alessandro Pagura, who is co-founder, co-curator and a featured designer in the current exhibition, Amateur Hour, on display online and by RSVP now at Detroit Center for Design + Technology

We caught up with Pagura recently and here’s what we learned…

Alessandro Pagura is starting his final year at Lawrence Technological University. He studies Industrial Design and is working as an intern for Pophouse at the moment. But it’s his work with this year’s Month of Design programming at the DCDT that especially caught our attention.

“I am exceptionally passionate about designing products and objects that improve people’s lives in a visually minimal and playful manner,” he says. He’s making the most of having more time at home during the pandemic.

​DCDT: Are you involved in the Month of Design? If so, how?

AP: “I am involved in Detroit Month of Design as the co-founder, co-curator, and am a featured designer in Amateur Hour, a design exhibition of LTU student work at the DCDT! It’s my first time ever being involved in Detroit Month of Design and it’s been an incredible experience.”

DCDT: What sets Detroit apart when it comes to art, architecture and design?
AP: “I am not originally from Detroit, but have grown to love the city and surrounding area since moving here for college. The city’s creative curiosity and the ability to produce meaningful projects from the ground up is unique to Detroit as well as my favorite part about living and working in the area. The overpowering determination to create and make among creatives here is a testament to the unique and enduring soul of the city.”

DCDT: What businesses are you supporting at this time?
AP: “Being an obsessive music fan, currently I have been making a larger effort to support smaller musicians by purchasing music and merchandise either directly through their own sites or Bandcamp on days when the platform waives their purchase fees to divert money either directly to the artists or to charities supporting a plethora of good causes.”

DCDT: Where are you finding inspiration amid the pandemic?
AP: “I have really been finding comfort and inspiration in the simple things and routines that surround me. The joy in making my morning coffee, spinning some records, calling an old friend, going for long walks, discovering an engaging show or documentary - and most importantly for my creative process - is the time I use for daydreaming. Daydreaming and enjoying the simple pleasures of home have led me to catch the best ideas I can during this time.”
 
Learn more about Alessandro Pagura’s work and current exhibition, Amateur Hour, on our exhibition page.
 
Would you like to be featured in a future @Home with… interview? Just drop a line to stephanie@prologuedetroit.com and we’ll reach out with questions, request a photo and add you to our growing list of Detroit entrepreneurs, designers, architects and artists. Stay safe. Stay @ Home with us.