Milena Canonero, an iconic figure in the realm of costume design, is slated to receive the coveted Vision Award at the 78th Locarno Film Festival. This prestigious accolade, supported by Ticinomoda, will be presented on the evening of August 10th during Locarno78. Her celebrated portfolio includes groundbreaking work on films such as Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange and Francis Ford Coppola's forthcoming Megalopolis, which she will also introduce at the festival. Canonero's designs are renowned for their ability to intricately weave character and narrative through fabric and form, leaving an indelible mark on the visual landscape of cinema. Organizers lauded her for pioneering visionary costumes that have shaped our collective imagination, employing vibrant materials and cutting-edge tailoring to accentuate the intrinsic nature of cinematic creations.

Her artistic prowess is further evidenced by her impressive collection of accolades, including four Academy Awards for Best Costume Design for films like Kubrick’s Barry Lyndon, Hugh Hudson’s Chariots of Fire, Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette, and Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel. Beyond her work in costume, Canonero has also lent her creative talents to set design, notably for Barbet Schroeder’s Single White Female and Roman Polanski’s stage rendition of Amadeus. Her versatility also extends to directing short films and commercials, showcasing a multifaceted artistic vision. The Vision Award, bestowed upon individuals who have significantly contributed to the evolution of cinematic imagery, recognizes her profound impact on the art form.

Giona A. Nazzaro, the artistic director of the Locarno Film Festival, hailed Canonero as a contemporary titan of cinema and art. He emphasized her unique ability, akin to a Renaissance master, to merge profound craftsmanship with the boundless possibilities of film, thereby unlocking new dimensions for human imagination and expression. Canonero's contributions, from her pioneering work on A Clockwork Orange onwards, have fundamentally altered the perception of costume design's expressive power, ultimately reshaping our understanding of cinema itself. Her enduring and universal artistic legacy stands as a testament to her vibrant and joyous genius, deeply rooted in Italy's rich artistic heritage, and now a cherished part of global culture. This recognition at Locarno underscores the profound and lasting impact of her creativity on the world of film and beyond.