L’Ambasciata d’Italia a Washington e la rete consolare negli USA celebrano l’ottava edizione dell’Italian Design Day, che ricorre il 14 marzo, con un programma ricco di eventi che si terranno in tutto il Paese, fino al mese di maggio, all’insegna del tema “Fabbricare valore – inclusività, innovazione e sostenibilità” scelto per la rassegna promossa dalla Farnesina nell’edizione 2024.
Il 15 marzo a Washington D.C., l’Ambasciatrice Mariangela Zappia ospiterà a Villa Firenze l’evento “Pillole di Design dall’Italia a Washington D.C. Il design italiano a Villa Firenze. La storia di Edra, un’eccellenza italiana nel mondo”, un’occasione per celebrare il design italiano con un focus su una delle più rinomate aziende italiane del settore. Con il progetto Villa Firenze Contemporanea, la Residenza degli Ambasciatori d’Italia negli Stati Uniti espone oltre cinquanta pezzi tra opere d’arte contemporanea e di design italiano.
All’intervento di apertura dell’Ambasciatrice seguirà una conversazione tra Niccolò Mazzei, Direttore dello Sviluppo Internazionale di Edra, e del rinomato fotografo Massimo Listri, autore delle immagini del catalogo ufficiale di Villa Firenze Contemporanea. All’evento parteciperanno Maby Palmisano, Presidente del COMITES di Washington D.C., e Andrea Davis e Maurizio Mancianti, co-presidenti dell’Associazione Toscana-USA.
Il 18 marzo l’Ambasciatrice Zappia inaugurerà presso l’Ambasciata d’Italia la mostra “Compasso d’Oro alla Carriera. Omaggio della fotografia italiana ai maestri del Compasso d’Oro”, esposizione dedicata ai vincitori del prestigioso premio di design, organizzata insieme all’Istituto Italiano di Cultura e che vedrà la partecipazione di Antonella Andriani, vice presidente dell’ADI.
Sempre nella capitale, il 21 marzo si terrà l’inaugurazione del Flagship Store di Molteni, azienda leader del design italiano specializzata nella produzione di arredi di alta gamma.
Il programma prevede numerose iniziative in tutta la rete consolare negli USA.
A Chicago, il Consolato Generale e l’Istituto Italiano di Cultura, in collaborazione con l’agenzia ICE, ospiteranno il 14 marzo presso il Design Museum della città l’evento “Design the Future Inch by Inch”, dedicato alle prospettive future del design, con i designer Defne Koz e Marco Susani.
Lo stesso giorno, il Consolato a Detroit ha organizzato due workshop della Prof.ssa Sara Codarin, docente presso il Lawrence Tech University College of Architecture and Design, sulle applicazioni della robotica e dell’intelligenza artificiale rispettivamente nel design creativo e nel restauro architettonico, ispirandosi agli sviluppi e ai primati del design italiano.
Il Consolato Generale a Miami, con il supporto di Agenzia ICE, ADI, Pininfarina of America e Università di Miami, ospiterà il 14 marzo l’incontro sul tema “How Italian Design offers sustainable and innovative solutions that create value and improve well-being for the individual and the community”, con la partecipazione dell’architetto e designer Alfonso Femia e del Vice Presidente per il Design di Pininfarina of America Alfonso Femia.
A New York, oltre all’esposizione “Sustainable creation of preciousness. Angela Caputi’s resin jewelry” che presenterà le creazioni della designer Angela Caputi, il Consolato Generale e l’Istituto Italiano di Cultura hanno organizzato, in collaborazione con Interni Magazine, una serie di eventi in programma dal 16 al 23 maggio in vari punti della città, finalizzati alla promozione del design italiano nell’ambito della New York Design Week e dell’International Contemporary Furniture Fair.
Il Consolato Generale di Filadelfia ha in programma il 14 marzo il webinar “Italian Design in Philly”, che ripercorrerà, con il contributo di professionisti italiani che risiedono nella città, a partire dal professore e architetto Francesco Sgrazzutti, la storia e il ruolo attuale del design italiano.
Il Consolato Generale e l’Istituto Italiano di Cultura a San Francisco, in collaborazione con l’American Institute of Architects e la SF Art Academy, allestiranno presso l’Innovation and Culture Hub Innovit la mostra “Exhibition and Inauguration Panel: Dear Pinocchio, Italian designers and graphic designers redesign the most famous puppet in the world”, curata dal designer Giulio Iacchetti, che la illustrerà in un panel il 14 marzo.
Presso il Consolato Generale a Boston il 15 marzo il Prof. Paolo Ciuccarelli, fondatore del DensityDesign Research Lab presso la Northeastern University, condurrà l’evento aperto al pubblico “Design Beyond Design”, dedicato alla tradizione del design italiano in uno scenario di innovazione tecnologica globale.
Il programma completo:
CHICAGO – “Design the Future Inch by Inch”
March 14, 2024, 6 pm CT @ Design Museum of Chicago
Organized by the Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago and Consulate General of Italy in Chicago in collaboration with Museum Design of Chicago, Italian Trade Agency Chicago.
Defne Koz and Marco Susani are the founders of Koz Susani Design, an award-winning international design studio. They design iconic, impactful, emotionally engaging, best-seller products and experiences, spanning from domestic objects to high-tech devices, from hi-touch materials to interaction design, from luxury crafts to mass-manufactured products; in 2022, they were awarded the Compasso d’Oro.
On the occasion of IDD 2024 and in the framework of the 2024 cultural program of the Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago titled “IN FUTURO: a Survey of Possibilities”, they will reflect on how designers constantly think about the future, watch how society and cultures evolve, and imagine how the environment around people – at any scale, from objects to architecture – can help build a better life. The presentation will begin showing historical examples of how designers anticipated cultural transformation in the ‘60s, and will then introduce recent projects of vision scenarios for the future of work, mobility, and health.
It is possible to register for the event directly online:
https://iicchicago.esteri.it/it/gli_eventi/calendario/incontro-design-the-future-inch-by-inch/
https://iicchicago.esteri.it/it/news/dall_istituto/2024/02/viii-edizione-di-italian-design-day/
DETROIT – “AI and robots for Design – an Italian workshop”
March 14, 2024, 9:30 am-12:30 pm ET @ Lawrence Technological University
Prof. Sara Codarin will host a workshop on artificial intelligence with advanced robotics applications at Lawrence Tech University for 30 Detroit-based high school students interested in pursuing career pathways in creative design. Following an introductory theoretical session on the advances in design in Italy, utilizing both AI and robotics and exploring their diverse applications, students will have the opportunity to create Italy-inspired projects executed by robots – a 2.5-D drawing, a laser design on photographic paper, and a clay object. This immersive experience aims to inspire and innovate, providing students with a hands-on opportunity to explore the cutting-edge intersection of AI, robotics, and design, while fostering creativity and sparking their curiosity about Italy’s contributions to their future career paths in the field.
In-person event, with students selected by Design Connect
MIAMI – “How Italian Design offers sustainable and innovative solutions that create value and improve well-being for the individual and the community.”
March 14, 2024, 6 pm ET @ Italian Cultural Institute of Miami (209 Altara Avenue, Coral Gables)
In collaboration with ITA (Italian Trade Agency) Miami, ADI, Pininfarina of America, University of Miami.
The Consulate General of Italy in Miami is glad to host a high-profile event celebrating the eighth edition of Italian Design Day, convening professionals from the design industry and community.
Renowned architect and ADI ambassador, Alfonso Femia, and Pininfarina of America SVP Design, Paolo Trevisan, will discuss Italian design’s innovative answers and durable value-creating solutions to the essential needs of individuals and communities.
Over the past few years, Florida and Miami in particular have experienced a steady increase in population and a burgeoning housing demand. This has engendered new needs related to infrastructure, urban planning, and green areas.
Distinguished representatives of the local design community will engage with the panelists, sharing their experience, expertise, and knowledge of the issues of this area in a quest for innovative answers and solutions.
By invitation only
NEW YORK – “Sustainable creation of preciousness. Angela Caputi’s resin jewelry”
March 14, 2024, 6 pm ET @ Italian Cultural Institute (686 Park Avenue)
Established in 1975 in Florence, her exclusive workshop, operating under the brand Angela Caputi Giuggiù, is where she personally creates her collections. These jewels, meticulously fashioned with resins and synthetic materials, adhere to traditional Florentine techniques, embodying quintessential “Made in Italy” craftsmanship. Situated near the Ponte Vecchio, in the historic Palazzetto Medici, Angela Caputi Giuggiù’s workshop serves as the creative hub for the Florentine artist, who is known internationally.
Initially drawing inspiration from 1940s American movies and fueled by a deep-rooted passion for fashion, Angela Caputi’s foundation remains in fashion, yet she continuously expands her styles to embrace modernity. Known for their creativity and perpetual evolution, Angela Caputi’s jewelry reflect meticulous color research. Every detail, from geometric or smooth lines to the enchanting color nuances achieved through synthetic resins, is thoroughly explored. Her bijoux serve as an embodiment of eternity and femininity, seamlessly blending modernity with traditional craftsmanship. Having cultivated a special relationship with show business and haute couture since the beginning, Angela Caputi’s creations have graced the attire of numerous movies. Collaborating with renowned high-fashion costume designers, her precious artworks swiftly conquered the global market. The brand’s presence at major trend shows worldwide attests to the universal appeal of Angela Caputi Giuggiù’s creations. Angela Caputi has earned global acclaim for her unparalleled bijoux, capturing the attention of haute couture stylists and museums. Her creations have been showcased in prestigious venues, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Museo degli Argenti (Silver Museum), and the Galleria del Costume (Costume Gallery) in Florence. Angela Caputi’s artworks have also been showcased in various exhibitions, including the dedicated showcase “Indossare il colore” (Verona, Studio la Città Art Gallery, 2020-2021). Over the years, she has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Fiorino d’Oro (Golden Florin), one of Florence’s most esteemed awards.
DETROIT – “The intersection of artificial intelligence and robotics and its applications for preserving architectural heritage – an Italian story”
March 14, 2024, 6:30-8:30 pm ET @ Lawrence Technological University
In collaboration with Lawrence Technological University and College of Architecture and Design.
An enlightening session with Dr. Sara Codarin, a distinguished professor at the Lawrence Tech University College of Architecture and Design, discussing the intersection of artificial intelligence and robotics for the architecture and design community in Detroit. Dr. Codarin will begin with a brief history of Italian design, including the opportunity to touch upon the Salone del Mobile (Milan Furniture Fair), which Michigan designers will participate in for the first time this year. She will then delve into Italy’s innovative contributions and advancements in AI and robotics, demonstrating how these technologies are revolutionizing architectural restoration and design processes. Dr. Codarin will also discuss her successful ‘Rome-ing Around‘ project, in which students experience an immersive journey in Rome modeled after the Grand Tour, focusing on its historical and architectural significance, and creating AI vignettes of a Rome that does not (yet) exist. The evening will include an exhibition of the works of the most recent ‘Rome-ing‘ students and a show-and-tell element featuring robots operating Italian designs. This showcase will put forward various collaborations with Italy in the field of innovation and new technologies, offering a networking opportunity and insights into robotics, design, and higher education, as well as text-to-image AI for rapid ideation and storytelling.
By invitation only (but requests for consideration can be made in writing to segreteria.detroit@esteri.it)
PHILADELPHIA – “Italian Design in Philly”
March 14, 2024 @ online (on the social media accounts of the Consulate General)
In collaboration with Italian designers in Philly.
Discovering Italian design through the work of Italian professionals living in Philadelphia: starting with professor and architect Sgrazzutti of the Moore College of Art and Design who will guide us through the meaning of the Italian experience and the history of design, we will meet and discuss the added value of being an Italian designer today and what an Italian upbringing means for those professionals in their work.
SAN FRANCISCO – “Exhibition and Inauguration Panel: Dear Pinocchio, Italian designers and graphic designers redesign the most famous puppet in the world.”
March 14, 2024, 5:30 pm PT @ Italian Innovation and Culture Hub INNOVIT
Organized by the Italian Cultural Institute and the Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco in collaboration with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the SF Art Academy.
- A selection of objects of the EXHIBITION: “Dear Pinocchio, Italian designers and graphic designers redesign the most famous puppet in the world”. Curated by Giulio Iacchetti. The exhibition, as the curator explains, is the expression of the different feelings and actions of many Italian designers: a broadened, kaleidoscopic, capable of describing the ability of Italian design to create timeless images and objects, thus celebrating the myth of Geppetto, the father of Pinocchio and the first Italian designer!”
- A PANEL by: Curator Giulio Iacchetti who will explain the content of the exhibition and the meanings of the displayed objects and an American designer panelist by AIA/SF Art Academy who will talk about the American experience in the industrial design sector.
AFTER THE DAY
WASHINGTON, D.C. – “Pillole di Design dall’Italia a Washington D.C. Il design italiano a Villa Firenze. La storia di Edra, un’eccellenza italiana nel mondo”
March 15, 2024, 11:00 am ET @ Villa Firenze, Residence of the Ambassador of Italy to the United States
Villa Firenze will host an engaging discussion on Italian design, which will also be live-streamed at Manifattura Tabacchi in Florence. The focal point of the conversation will be Edra, a company founded in Tuscany in 1987, renowned globally for its exceptional products that seamlessly blend artistic tradition, technological innovation, master craftsmanship and premium materials.
Ambassador Mariangela Zappia will open the event followed by Maby Palmisano, President of COMITES Washington D.C., and Andrea Davis and Maurizio Mancianti, the co-presidents of the Tuscan American Association. Speakers for the occasion include Niccolò Mazzei, Director of International Development at Edra, and Massimo Listri, one of the most important photographers of designers and the official photographer of the Villa Firenze Contemporanea exhibition. Architects Gabriella Vetrugno and Andrea Maggi will serve as moderators for the event.
The initiative is part of a monthly series titled “Pillole di Design” conceived by architect Gabriella Vetrugno and organized by COMITES Washington D.C. in collaboration with the Italian Cultural Institute, spotlighting key figures in Italian design. In particular, this conversation will focus on Villa Firenze Contemporanea, a project of cultural diplomacy following the Quirinale Contemporaneo exhibition in Rome, which gathers 50 pieces of art and design of the most important Italian designers and artists.
BOSTON – “Design Beyond Design”
March 15, 2023, 5:30 PM ET @ Consulate General of Italy in Boston
In collaboration with Northeastern University’s Center for Design.
The Consulate General of Italy in Boston and Prof. Paolo Ciuccarelli, founder of DensityDesign Research Lab at Northeastern University, will organize a special event entirely dedicated to the multifaceted importance that design plays in our lives. Design, in fact, is everywhere. It permeates each aspect of our lives, shaping the way we interact with the world around us. It is in every form of organization, at every scale, and yet, its significance often is confined to few domains of application, with a connotation that merely emphasizes aesthetics and appearance over function, as if they were disconnected. The talk explores the broad impact of design, in its interplay between research and practice, reflecting on the tradition of Italian design in the context of a global, technology-driven, innovation scenario.
Registration link: Italian Design Day: DESIGN BEYOND DESIGN Tickets, Fri 15 Mar 2024 at 17:30 | Eventbrite
This event will take place in person, by prior online registration.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – “Fotografia alla carriera. Omaggio della fotografia italiana ai maestri del Compasso d’Oro”
March 18, 2024, 6:30 pm ET @ Embassy of Italy (3000 Whitehaven Street NW)
The exhibition is organized by ADI Design Museum in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy and the Italian Cultural Institute of Washington, D.C. It will be inaugurated on March 18th and it will remain open until the end of April.
This exhibition is a tribute by Italian photographers to the recipients of the Compasso d’Oro career awards who have dedicated their careers to shaping the success of Made in Italy, contributing to the creation of some of the most iconic pieces of design in history.
It also represents a quest for dialogue between two interconnected yet distinct disciplines, essential to the operational methodology of Italian design. It offers not only glimpses into the lives of influential figures in Italian design, but also presents a comprehensive perspective on the state of Italian photography.
The Compasso d’Oro, as the oldest institutional design award globally, aims, as its primary goal, to spotlight the excellence of Made in Italy products while also acknowledging the transformative impact of design across production and society, with a dedicated section related to career awards.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – “Molteni&C Flagship Store Grand Opening”
March 21st – By invitation only
Molteni&C, leading Italian design company specialized in the production of high-end home furnishings, is opening its Flagship Store in Washington, D.C., at 3306 M Street NW.
NEW YORK – “Celebrating Italian Design. 70 years of Interni Magazine”
May 16-23, 2024 (during New York Design Week) @ Consulate General of Italy (690 Park Avenue) and other locations (Italian showrooms) TBD
In collaboration with Interni Magazine and Italian design brands based in New York.
On the occasion of New York Design Week and the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF), two major events devoted to design, the Consulate General of Italy, in collaboration with Interni Magazine, aims to promote Italian design through a series of events, including the presentation of a special issue of the magazine dedicated to NY (entirely in English), involving eminent Italian brand designers and representatives from the design sector. Interni Magazine represents the first Italian interior design magazine and one of the most influential journals on Italian design. 2024 constitutes a critical year for the magazine: It marks its 70th anniversary since its foundation and the 30th year of Gilda Bojardi as its Editor, thanks to whom Interni has “evolved into a system of publications and become one of the major international design and architecture communication networks”.
