Between tradition and innovation

Today, stopping to observe a product transformation under the hands of an expert craftsman feels revolutionary. Yet, this is the true essence of Made in Italy – where it all began, and where we must return to rethink and act. A cultural and economic drain is progressively erasing centuries of material culture, traditions, and manual skills that cannot be replicated through education alone. However, there are signs of renewed attention and rebirth, which must find a shared political and economic commitment at both European and national levels. Venice, having built its history on artistic craftsmanship, stands at the forefront of this movement by promoting actions to protect, preserve, and revitalize ancient trades and centuries-old knowledge.

Out of this impulse comes the Salone dell’Alto Artigianato Italiano, organized by Vela Spa and promoted by the City of Venice, now in its fourth edition and returning to the Arsenale from October 1 to 4. The venue choice is deeply symbolic: the seven Tese of the Arsenale – an iconic symbol of the Republic of Venice’s history – now host a narrative spanning regions, materials, and traditions. The exhibition takes visitors on a journey ranging from fine textiles to ceramics, from jewelry to blown glass, extending to designer furniture and numerous other artisanal forms.
Beyond displaying works, the Salone aims to highlight the value of manual labor while celebrating the creativity and talent of master artisans. Within this dialogue between tradition and innovation, craftsmanship gains a new forward-looking perspective. Live demonstrations, workshops, and talks enrich the program, proving how ancient techniques can still inspire contemporary ideas, objects, and visual languages. In a city world-renowned for the excellence of its creations, the Salone offers a fresh vision of production rooted in a deep understanding of materials and the uniqueness of the human touch.