Solomei AI

Nikola Tesla once said, "If you know the power of 3, 6, and 9, you discover the secrets of the universe." For Brunello Cucinelli, the secrets of the universe are unveiled through the power of philosophy.

"The guiding thread of our work for Human Artificial Intelligence has been, and will continue to be, the pursuit of a serene and hopeful attitude towards technology, which I am certain will bring benefits to all of humanity." —  Brunello Cucinelli

Since its inception in 1978, the Umbrian designer has infused his brand with principles from the humanities, propelling it to the forefront of the cashmere industry and advocating for educated kindness.

On July 16, 2024, at the Piccolo Teatro (also known as the Stehler Theater) in Milan, Brunello Cucinelli unveiled the "Solomei AI" project. This initiative was not a sudden idea but a carefully developed concept over three years, originating from a 2019 symposium on artificial intelligence held in Solomeo, which featured notable participants like LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman. Impressed by the project's revolutionary approach, Hoffman encouraged a swift launch.

The integration of AI into Cucinelli's world began in 2021 with a diverse team of mathematicians, engineers, philosophers, and artists. Under the guidance of Francesco Buttigliero, Chief of Humanistic Technology at Brunello Cucinelli, the team explored AI applications within the brand. Initially, AI was intended to organise the Universal Library of Solomeo, but the project has since evolved into Humanistic Artificial Intelligence.

"The guiding thread of our work for Human Artificial Intelligence has been, and will continue to be, the pursuit of a serene and hopeful attitude towards technology, which I am certain will bring benefits to all of humanity," Cucinelli said. "Our website is freed from the constraints of pages and puts the person at the centre, allowing them to explore the content in complete freedom. The innovative Solomei AI platform, which aims to visually and immediately represent what is being searched for, is the beautiful fruit of a plant that grows from the oldest wisdom. It reminds us of my teacher Xenophanes: 'Certainly, from the very beginning, the gods did not reveal everything to mortals, but over time, those who seek find what is best.' I would like our young people to be able to confidently search for what is best in their own time."

“I will be delighted if others chose to follow the path of blending and merging technology and humanism.“ —  Brunello Cucinelli

Despite the innovative nature of the project, Francesco Buttigliero noted that it has been registered as intellectual property. Cucinelli, however, emphasised that he would be delighted "if others chose to follow the path of blending and merging technology and humanism," creating similar platforms.

Solomei AI, powered by a beta software version, offers users a “(brave) new world” to explore at www.brunellocucinelli.ai. The journey begins with Socrates, who engages in dialogue with visitors, continually seeking accurate information and learning through interaction. For example, when asked, "How many hairs does Brunello Cucinelli have?" Socrates provides an informed answer through continuous learning.

Demosthenes ensures effective communication on the site, expressing content clearly in multiple languages. Meanwhile, the Dioscuri monitor conversations to maintain accuracy and respect. Callimachus assists in website creation by verifying, reconstructing, modifying, correcting, and improving content through interactive dialogue.

Thamyris captures visitors' intent and guides their exploration, ensuring a visually engaging and personalised experience. Finally, Theano is the technological engine that brings everything together. Together, these components form the Solomei AI platform, revolutionising digital interaction by creating dynamic, user-centric websites.

"We must shape AI. And, in turn, let AI help shape us." — Reid Hoffman

The new website, now live, offers enhanced interactivity, allowing users, including those with disabilities, to ask questions about the brand and receive AI-generated responses. Plans are underway to extend this approach to e-commerce within a year.

Currently, the site provides a preview of Cucinelli’s world, with significant potential for integrating AI into fashion and purchase processes in the future. As Reid Hoffman stated in his 2024 Lectio Doctoralis at the University of Perugia, "We must shape AI. And, in turn, let AI help shape us."