GABBER ELEGANZA — ARCHIVIO

This is the personal archive of a legendary raver. It’s mostly a collection of advertisements — for raves, for record stores. It’s printed on regular paper, which makes it feel more authentically like a zine. It’s full of homemade graphics and drawings, naive and somewhat open-hearted. It’s the kind of thing I see today’s graphic designers ripping off for a bit of nostalgic flavor. “Raves” and “the 90s” are hot aesthetics right now — even hotter in combination. I am not immune to the draw of this aesthetic. I find it interesting. For instance I’m still trying to sort out why chunky/intentionally ugly shoes have made such a roaring comeback. I guess they make your ankles look thin, which has a certain appeal. They also suggest that the wearer attends raves, at least every now and again, which suggests also that they’re an exciting person. If you see someone in these shoes, though, check the dirt level. I’ve never been to a rave with a clean floor.