Milan, 30 November.(Adnkronos) – Artigiano in fiera opened today, one of the most anticipated events, scheduled until Sunday 8 december from 10.00 to 22.30 with free admission to Fieramilano Rho. This year, the most meaningful international event dedicated to craftsmanship has 2,800 exhibition stands from 90 countries in 8 pavilions. From clothes to design, from furniture to accessories, from jewelery to food, passing through products for health, well-being and free time Artigiano in Fiera is an innovative “square” created to highlight the beauty and value of the arts and improving careers, where you can make original, authentic and quality purchases that respect the supply chain and respect the environment.
“With their ability to innovate and adapt, micro and small businesses are not only the engine of the Italian economy but also an invaluable cultural heritage” said Antonio intiglietta, President of Ge.Fi. Gestion Fiere Spa, wich officially opened the 2024 edition in the presence of numerous guests who gave their blessings: Carlo Bonomi, President of fiera Milano Spa, Alessia Cappello, Advisor for Economic Growth and Labor Policies of the Municipality of Milan, Enrico Brambilla, President Artisan at the Steering Committee of the Fair, Daniela Santanchè, Minister of tourism, Giuseppe Valditara, Minister of Education and Merit, and Attilio Fontana, President of the Lombardy region. The opening ceremony was first held in the exhibition area of the Saudi Arabia Country of the Year for the Middle East in the presence of his Highness Prince Faisal bin Sattam AlSaud, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Italy, with Mayada Badr, CEO of the Culinary Arts Commission of Saudi Arabia and Architecture and design Commission CEO Sumaya Al-Solaiman and, subsequently, in the Algerian Pavilion, represented by the African Country of the Year by Houria Meddahi, Minister of Tourism and Crafts of Algeria.
Organized by the Saudi Ministry of Culture with the participation of various cultural commissions and Saudi companies,this year Saudi Arabia is at the fair with a fantastic pavilion where,together with 33 artisans with products of local tradition and culture,there is space for Irth. restaurant, where you can try some of the most popular dishes in the Kingdom and a rich program of cultural events including music, dance and much more, including a stand dedicated to the year of the camel, an anniversary launched by the Saudi Arabia this year to celebrate the enormous cultural value of the animal and the importent role it continues to play every day in the lives of the people of Saudi Arabia.
With an exhibition space of over 1,000 m2 designed by the CNAM – Chambre Nationale de l’Artisanat et des Métiers with the support of the Ministry of Tourism and Crafts and the Ministry of Commerce, Algeria participates in Artigiano in Fiera with up to 80 companies. artisans - over 30 of whom are women – involved in various artisanal professions, offering a rich and authentic overview of the traditions and skills of the Village’s artisans. Among the treasures, Berber pieces in silver and fabrics and clothes that reflect the distinctive Algerian style stand out, as well as leather accessories worked in the Sahara area and the authentic flavors of the local culinary tradition.
Being a craftsman is a life choice as the theme of the 2024 edition to reaffirm the rewards of a profession experienced as a creative and conscious choice, in an integrated approach that combines respect for the environment and local traditions, a strong sense of community, innovation. and technological progress. The artisans present at the fair are innovators, artists and creators of novel, gorgeous, good and useful things, which show what can be produced from raw materials and from nature. The work and presence of these companies contribute to the development and prosperity of the territories. “Artigiano in Fiera goes far beyond showcasing artisan products: it is a declaration of know-how as an expression of human creativity – explained Antonio Intiglietta – With this year’s theme we want to emphasize the importance of a conscious and sustainable approach to production. , which enhances local traditions and promotes a more authentic lifestyle”.
Italy is present in full force at Artigiano in Fiera. There was also a large participation from European and intercontinental countries, with seven new presences: Eritrea, Oman, Georgia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Finland and latvia. If in the European area the historic participation of France and Germany stands out with a project that brings together the best of artisan products from Hesse and africa - the great presence of Morocco is confirmed with the collective managed by the Union Maroc Artisan and Tunisia,
Country of Honor in 2023, this year at the fair with 61 companies representing the best local craftsmanship.from Asia, the return of China is significant, which after two years of absence is participating with the depiction of 20 artisan companies from Guizhou province and 2 from Yunnan province. from Vietnam, with the direct support of the Ministry of Agriculture, a group of artisans selected as part of the One Country One Priority Product project, a five-year FAO program aimed at improving Special Agricultural Products with unique qualities, presents itself. Also notable was the presence of Uzbekistan, at the fair with 30 companies from the project managed by the local Huarmand Craftsmen association, and Indonesia, again this year at the fair with the support of ITPC, the body to promote Indonesian crafts. From Latin America, the participation of Peru is confirmed, which is done in collaboration with the Consulate General of Peru in Milan. New products on display in the micro-collection include coffee,superfoods (such as maca and lucuma),artisan chocolate,alpaca garments and traditional ceramics.
Always attentive to market trends and needs, Artigiano i Fiera has long dedicated space to the world of “living well”. This year, thanks to the presence of 456 companies (with 157 new exhibitors) from Italy (with more than 300) and abroad, the event adds a dimension of “living well” spread throughout the 8 pavilions. At the fair, organic, vegan, mountain and gluten-free artisan products lend their authenticity and quality, substantially reflecting a sector typically dominated by the industry. Of the 214 companies with organic products present (101 of them making their debut), 113 are Italian, 11 European and 90 from the rest of the world. 242 companies (including 56 new exhibitors) have vegan, mountain and gluten-free products, of which 188 are Italian, 23 European and 31 from the rest of the world. In addition, 14 of the 456 companies are gathered in a dedicated area that is clearly visible within pavilion 4, with exclusively certified products and references.
Not only knowledge, arts and crafts but also flavors: Artigiano in Fiera is an opportunity to travel through the culinary traditions of Italy and the world. Each country has its own cuisine and it will be enough to tour the pavilions to try recipes from different continents,crossing the whole country from Alto Adige canederli to Sicilian pasta alla norma,from Piedmontese agnolotti to Neapolitan pizza,or opening up to the rest of the world,from Indian samosas to American pulled pork,not forgetting the Old World where you can taste paella,raclette,moussaka,spatzle and more. Along with the many producers and artisan shops, there will be 28 restaurants and 19 tasting rooms to welcome visitors. If among the Italian restaurants you can choose from specialties from all regions, the international offer is also huge (and very original), well represented by France, Spain, Greece, mexico, Germany, the Argentina, Austria, saudi arabia, Ireland, united States. and also Japan and India to name but a few. Among the Tasty Places, as well as organic, the classics that cannot be missed between Italy and the rest of the world are confirmed, with the beginning of Africa and Georgia (don’t miss the Khinkali, fresh local pasta ravioli filled with many fillings different).
the fair is also child-pleasant: at the entrance to pavilions 4/10 there is a children’s area maintained by Leolandia with many services dedicated to young visitors to the fair and their families. Enlivened by many services and shows, “Leolandia in Fiera” is the perfect place to have fun in total safety every day from 12.00 to 18.00 in the magical atmosphere of Italy’s most loved park.There are two play areas: one for children aged 4-7 years and one for children aged 0-36 months (always accompanied by a parent or responsible adult). the nursery area offers a quiet place for new mothers with changing tables, breastfeeding chairs and bottle warmers.
Also this year, the Artigiano in Fiera advertising campaign was created in collaboration with IED Milan through a competition in which 15 young talents from three-year courses and various Master Courses of IED Milan participated. The chosen illustration, entitled Co-Creation, is signed by the young Guatemalan graphic designer Mariana Porras and represents the different generations of artisans gathered in a laboratory and united by the value of passion and mastery shared and transmitted by quality service.
The Kipoint de Poste Italiane service center is active in receiving pavilion 1/3 where home delivery can be requested for purchases.Rates vary depending on the weight and size of the goods.
Admission to Artigiano in Fiera is free: all visitors can get their pass on the artigianoinfiera.it website in a few clicks. Visitors to previous editions and customers of the online platform have already received a free pass to their email address.
The main public transport to reach the event are the M1 metro line (Rho Fiera stop), the rail connections (Trenord) and the high speed line (Italo). During the days of the fair, Trenord offers the “Trenord Day Pass” ticket to reach the exhibition center from all over Lombardy at a cost of 13 euros for a return trip. Those leaving from Milan, though, can only use the ticket for 4.40 euros for a return journey. For those arriving by car, there are over 10,000 parking spaces available in total. More details and updates on the official website artigianoinfiera.it and on the social networks of the event, including the WhatsApp channel.
What are the key themes highlighted at Artigiano in Fiera 2024 for artisans adn consumers?
Interview: The Art of Craftsmanship at Artigiano in Fiera 2024
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Alessandra Rossi, an esteemed expert in the field of craftsmanship and lasting art forms. It’s a pleasure to have you with us today, especially during the opening week of Artigiano in Fiera, a vibrant showcase of global craftsmanship. As an expert,how do you perceive the importance of this event for artisans and the broader cultural landscape?
Dr. Alessandra Rossi: Thank you for having me! The Artigiano in Fiera is not just an exhibition; it’s a party of cultural heritage and innovation. With 2,800 stands from 90 countries, it highlights the diversity of craftsmanship across the globe. This year’s theme, “Being a craftsman is a life choice,” emphasizes the conscious decisions artisans make to maintain thier traditions while incorporating sustainable practices. It’s an inspiring reminder of the vital role they play in our cultural identity and local economies.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely! The emphasis on sustainability has never been more crucial. Can you elaborate on how the artisans at the fair are merging traditional methods with modern innovation?
Dr. Alessandra Rossi: Certainly! Many artisans are now utilizing eco-pleasant materials and techniques that respect the surroundings—a response to the growing demand for sustainable products. For example, we see traditional artisans from places like Algeria showcasing their skills while also addressing modern needs, such as eco-conscious consumption. this year, they’re presenting authentic Berber silver pieces alongside innovative leather goods from the sahara. It’s about honoring their heritage while also being relevant in today’s market.
Time.news Editor: That’s a fascinating blend. With notable participation from diverse countries like saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan, how does such international representation influence local artisans?
Dr. Alessandra Rossi: The international presence is invaluable.It fosters collaboration and encourages knowledge exchange among artisans from different backgrounds. As an example, Saudi Arabia’s focus this year on local traditions, paired with their vibrant pavilion, introduces new narratives that can inspire local artisans to infuse their works with fresh perspectives.It creates a global dialog about craftsmanship and innovation that benefits everyone involved.
Time.news Editor: Lasting partnerships indeed! Let’s talk about the event’s unique aspects. The fair offers a space for various artisan products, including living well themes featuring organic and gluten-free products. What does this say about the changing landscape of consumer preferences?
Dr. Alessandra Rossi: Consumer awareness has shifted tremendously. People are now gravitating towards products that are authentic, local, and sustainably sourced. The inclusion of over 456 companies focusing on organic and vegan options showcases a keen understanding of market demands. The artisan sector is responding creatively to this trend,blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary health consciousness,proving that artisanship is dynamic and adaptable.
Time.news Editor: That’s an encouraging insight! The fair is not only a marketplace but a platform for education and cultural exchange. What impact do you foresee this having on the future of craftsmanship?
Dr. Alessandra Rossi: Events like Artigiano in Fiera create visibility for artisans and their narratives, which can lead to increased appreciation and support for local crafts. This enhanced awareness can drive policies that favor artisanal sectors and encourage younger generations to pursue craftsmanship as a viable career path. It’s an agent of change, promoting sustainability, cultural diversity, and creative expression—all essential for a thriving future.
time.news Editor: Well said! As we approach the end of our conversation, do you have any final thoughts for our readers who might potentially be inspired to explore or support the craftsmanship showcased at the fair?
Dr. Alessandra Rossi: I encourage everyone to visit artigiano in Fiera,immerse themselves in the rich stories behind each product,and understand the value of craftsmanship. Supporting these artisans goes beyond a purchase; it’s an investment in culture, community, and sustainable futures. Every handcrafted item tells a story, and by choosing these products, we contribute to preserving those narratives for generations to come.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for sharing your insights with us today. We look forward to seeing how the artisan community continues to flourish, and we hope many will seek inspiration at Artigiano in Fiera 2024!
Dr.Alessandra Rossi: Thank you for having me! Let’s celebrate the beauty of craftsmanship together!