In the sculpture series Spring coolers, Schweikle utilities a water dispenser as a prime example of how products can lose their visual appeal when form becomes inferior to function and producibility. While maintaining the techniques and material of the cooler, he modifies the design giving another narrative to this office archetype, one that belongs to the Neo-classical drinking fountains of historic city squares. In the same way in which the fountain not only provided water, but also a (public) gathering point, so does the water dispenser incite conversation and gossip that transcendsoffice hierarchy as colleagues refresh.
By reintroducing the decorative elements of the outdoor fountain to the office hot spot, Spring coolers reinstates the virtues of water and the social importance of this valuable resource.
Starting in April 2021, several Balenciaga stores worldwide showcased three Spring Coolers by artist Moreno Schweikle. Alongside the physical sculptures, Schweikle directed a digital campaign that connected works from the Spring Cooler series with pieces from Balenciaga’s SS21 accessories collection.
Balenciaga Art In Stores is on ongoing project. Artists Anna-Sophie Berger, Cayetano Ferrer, Nicole Wermers, Harry Nuriev, Tobias Spichtig and Yngve Holen have each created original installations for Balenciaga that range from temporary to permanent for the brand’s many outposts and events.
S-700 cooler in Balenciaga store Milano, Italy
G-300 fountain in Balenciaga store New York City, USA
A-100 fountain in Balenciaga store Shanghai, China
Digital Campaign video stills
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Digital Campaign video stills
