Disability and opportunity, the power of design: the story and art of Abdeljalil Makhloufi

ROMA – The story of Abdeljalil Makhloufi, overcoming tragedy with creativity. The “Relate” project was born from Makhloufi’s personal experience of transforming his own tragedy into a powerful source of inspiration and creativity. After a serious road accident in 2015 which left him quadriplegic, Makhloufi embarked on a path of resilience and innovation and learned to see disability not as a limit, but as a new opportunity to connect with himself and the world.

3D prosthetics. After a year and a half of hospitalization at the Spinal Unit of the Niguarda hospital in Milan, Makhloufi had the idea of ​​starting to design and create customized prostheses, using cutting-edge technologies such as 3D printing. He succeeds and thus captures the attention of occupational therapists, with whom he begins a collaboration aimed at creating tailor-made prostheses for other patients. His projects, now preserved in a dedicated database, represent a precious resource for those who, like him, have to face the challenges of disability.

Relate, a real relationship platform. “Relate” is not just a design project, but a real relationship platform: a network of human and professional connection in which cooperation and sharing experiences become fundamental to breaking down physical and psychological barriers. At its core is the idea that design is not just about making functional objects, but also about creating bonds and relationships that overcome cultural, social and economic differences. The project reflects a model of inclusion and collaboration, with applications in the healthcare and social context and beyond, demonstrating how technology, combined with human ingenuity, can help improve the quality of life of those living with a disability.

The appointment. Presented by Omnium Art Department, Abdeljalil Makhloufi’s project is called “Relate” and is curated by M. Abisso and with the support of A. Mariani (FABLAB Cuneo). The appointment is therefore for October 13th at 12pm at Omnium Art Department in Venice, Calle San Biasio 2154, in the heart of the Arsenale, “Relate” will be presented. During the Venice Design Week 2024 visitors will have the opportunity to discover “Relate”, a project in which design becomes a vehicle for transformation and interpersonal relationships are a key to change.