PROTOTYPE RESEARCH_SERIES 07

STONE ISLAND PROTOTYPE RESEARCH
SERIES 07
LIQUID CRYSTAL HEAT REACTIVE

MILAN DESIGN WEEK 2023
April 18-23
via Savona 54, Milan

Prototype Research Series are native limited editions. These unique garments are made with fabrics and/or treatments that are the result of research and experimentation that is not yet developed on an industrial scale.

Series 07 unveils a special thermochromic technology. The nylon canvas fabric, coated with a reactive helical-shaped cholesteric liquid crystal ink, reveals a vast spectrum of chromatic points through numerous unexpected degrees of iridescence.
Between 15° and 31°C, there is an exceptional color variance. The liquid crystals in the fabric trigger a reactive molecular color change system that can be seen in the color metamorphosis, shifting between shades of yellow and green into blues. Developed by the Stone Island Research and Development Hub in collaboration with the British duo Sara + Sarah, Liquid Crystal Heat Reactive features a black base color at room temperature, which is a departure from the thermo-chromatic solutions previously employed by Stone Island since as far back as 1989.

The installation:
A raised platform set in a black space houses two Series 07 garments in Liquid Crystal Heat Reactive. Exposed to heat and subsequently cooled, the fabric showcases the broad spectrum of colors that can be achieved. LED screens complete the installation, with a display of colors produced by the cholesteric liquid crystals, under a microscope.

INSTALLATION CREDITS:
CONCEPT AND ART DIRECTION BY KEN-TONIO YAMAMOTO
VISUALS BY KEN-TONIO YAMAMOTO & BENJAMIN OUTRAM