L'Italo-Americano

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025 www.italoamericano.org L'Italo-Americano 2 I t a l i a n d e s i g n i s f a r more than a collection of aesthetically pleas- i n g o b j e c t s . I t i s a reflection of the culture a n d a r t i s t i c h e r i t a g e t h a t define our country, a hallmark of Made in Italy and a true economic engine. In recent decades, it has become central to Italy's identity, turning the nation into a global bench- mark. Around the world, Ital- ian Design Week is promoted with the support of embassies, consulates, and chambers of commerce, while Milan's Design Week remains one of the most influential international events in the field. But what makes Italian design so unique and admired worldwide? To understand its importance, we must return to its his- torical roots. Art and creativity have always been part of Ital- ian culture; throughout history, key figures not only revolu- t i o n i z e d a r t a n d t h e v e r y c o n c e p t o f b e a u t y b u t a l s o anticipated what we now call "design." Their attention to detail and functionality laid the foundation for an approach Italian design: a heritage of creativity rooted in the past and reaching toward the future From the Editor t h a t u n i t e s a e s t h e t i c s w i t h u t i l i t y . In the 1950s and 1960s, design underwent a profound renewal. Designers such as Gio Ponti, Ettore Sottsass, and Alessandro Mendini experimented with forms, materials, and colors, creating iconic works that became symbols of ele- gance and innovation. That period marked the beginning of a new era: design was no longer focused solely on function but also on creativity and emotion. Today, Italian design is not only a cultural point of pride but also a key driver of the national economy. Industries such as furniture, fashion, automotive, and consumer elec- tronics owe much of their success to the distinctively Italian approach. According to data from FederlegnoArredo (the National Association of Italian Furniture Industries), the furniture and décor sector generated more than 40 billion euros in revenue in 2022, confirming its crucial role in the country's economy. Italian companies invest heavily in research and development, sustaining continuous innova- tion. Brands such as Ferrari, Maserati, and Gucci are not only synonymous with quality; they embody the idea of design as a balance between tradition and modernity. These companies don't simply manufacture products, they create experiences that tell stories and evoke emotions, reinforcing Italy's global leadership in design and the creative indus- tries. In recent years, there has also been growing attention to sustainability in design. Italian designers have responded by integrating environmentally conscious practices into produc- tion. The use of recycled materials, waste reduction, and long-lasting product design have become priorities for many creators and companies. This shift not only meets the demands of an increasingly aware market but also strength- ens the connection between design, culture, and territory. Eco-design is now a defining feature of the Italian design landscape, with numerous events, fairs, and exhibitions ded- icated to the theme. Milan's Salone del Mobile, for instance, has featured designers committed to promoting creativity that does not compromise the planet's well-being. This evo- lution demonstrates how artistic innovation can also be a form of social and environmental engagement. The dialogue between artistic heritage and contemporary design is another cornerstone of Italian design's success. Museums, galleries, and foundations are collaborating with designers to reinterpret artworks and show how art and design can meet to address social and cultural challenges, drawing inspiration from Italy's rich heritage to create new, forward-looking works. Education also plays a crucial role in keeping Italian design alive and innovative: schools such as the Politecnico di Milano and the Domus Academy train new generations of designers, encouraging exploration and experimentation. Through workshops, collaborative pro- jects, and international exchanges, students learn to blend creativity with technical skill, preparing to contribute to a constantly evolving field. Design is a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem, where cul- ture, creativity, and innovation intersect to give life to works that are both unique and meaningful. It goes far beyond the product itself, expressing a way of thinking and living that is deeply rooted in history yet constantly open to the future. In a rapidly changing world, Italian design remains a beacon of excellence, inspiring and influencing creatives and entrepre- neurs everywhere. Its ability to evolve while staying connect- ed to tradition ensures that Italian design will continue to shine as a symbol of quality and style. Simone Schiavinato, Editor Simone Schiavinato NEWS & FEATURES TOP STORIES PEOPLE EVENTS P.O.BOX 6528, ALTADENA, CA 91003 Member of FUSIE (Federazione Unitaria Stampa Italianaall'Estero), COGITO L'Italo-Americano Please send correspondence to P.O. Box 40156 Pasadena CA 91114 www.italoamericano.org L'Italo-Americano Newspaper (a 501(c)(3) non- profit organization), www.italoamericano.org, is the largest and longest-running Italian news- paper in America, not to mention the cultural and news resource for all things Italian in the US. A bilingual newspaper which represents an historical landmark for the Italian American Communities in the West Coast and throughout the US. L'Italo-Americano benefits from subsidies by the Italian Government, Memberships and Donations intended to support and not interrupt a mission that began in 1908 to preserve and promote the Italian language and culture in the USA Periodicals postage paid at Monrovia, California 91016, and additional mailing offices. PUBLISHER Robert Barbera Grande Ufficiale EDITOR IN CHIEF Simone Schiavinato ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER Patrick Abbate EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Barbara Minafra COPY EDITOR Francesca Bezzone LOS ANGELES CONTRIBUTOR Silvia Nittoli SAN FRANCISCO CONTRIBUTOR Serena Perfetto SEATTLE CONTRIBUTOR Rita Cipalla CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mariella Radaelli, Matt Walker, Francesca Bezzone, Luca Ferrari, Stefano Carnevali, Paula Reynolds, Teresa Di Fresco Nicoletta Curradi, Generoso D'Agnese, Jessica S. Levy, Fabrizio Del Bimbo, Maria Gloria, Chuck Pecoraro, Anthony Di Renzo Serena Perfetto, Kenneth Scambray, Chiara D'Alessio, Luca Signorini, Giulia Franceschini © 2025 L'Italo-Americano Membership: One year $59 - Single copy $2.25 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to L'Italo Americano P.O. Box 40156 Pasadena CA 91114

• Cover