The official opening of the 9th edition of the exhibition Italian Design Icons (IDI) will be held on Friday 22 at the prestigious 800 Show in Shanghai's Jing'an district. Inspired by DP Group and organised by Eastant Communication & Events, since 2016 IDI has been a reference platform for Italian Design Excellence, showcasing our country's design, technology and innovation.
This year, 22 to 24 NovemberIDI addresses the topic 'Manufacturing Value - Inclusiveness, Innovation, and Sustainability'. focusing on the growing importance of sustainable, inclusive and forward-looking design in shaping the future.
This year's edition promises to be exceptional, with many new features not to be missed.
First of all, this year IDI proudly welcomes two iconic Italian designers: Aldo Cibic, renowned designer and co-founder of the Memphis Group, who returns to IDI 2024 in the role of Artistic Director. With his wealth of experience and visionary philosophy, Cibic will bring new intensity and variety to this year's exhibition. Aldo Cingolani, a renowned figure in Italian design, known for his mastery of combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. As head of Bertone Design and New Crazy Colors (NCC) and founder of the Bertone Group, Cingolani's innovative approach has shaped numerous industry benchmark projects.
IDI 2024 will also feature a stellar line-up of iconic Italian companiesexhibiting a wide range of sectors representing the excellence of Made in Italy. These include Bertone Design NCC, Bialetti, Casappa, Dainese, Ducati, Fil Man Made Group, Goglio, iGuzzini, Illy, Itema, L.G.L. Electronics, Magniflex, Marposs, Maserati, Piaggio, Pininfarina, Pirelli, Ponzini, SAES Getters and UFI. The exhibition will range from manufacturing and textiles to automotive and packaging, highlighting the sustainability and global influence of Italian design.
During the three days, there will be 15 conferencesround tables, workshops and lectures, with the participation of celebrities and experts from the main fields, including design, manufacturing, innovation, inclusiveness and sustainability.
Following its success in previous years, IDI 2024 continues to support the inspiring initiative "Week of Light" in collaboration with Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) and the distinguished Italian lighting company iGuzzini. This competition bridges the academic and professional worlds, encouraging students to explore innovative ideas in lighting design under real-life conditions.
This year's event addresses three interconnected themes, each focusing on the future of lighting design in different areas: residential spaces, workplaces and social spaces. The project was designed to explore the evolution of lighting in the next decade and its impact on everyday life. To achieve this, participants worked within a Speculative Design Framework, a method that promotes innovative thinking by encouraging students to imagine future scenarios. The programme concluded with the Design Vision AI phase, in which students moved from conceptualisation to visualisation, using generative artificial intelligence tools to bring their speculative designs to life.
With this initiative, IDI continues to promote creativity and innovation, helping the emerging talents gain valuable visibility and get in touch with the dynamics of the industry. This year, the competition attracted even more students, encouraging new perspectives on sustainable and efficient lighting solutions. The students' projects were selected by a jury of experts, chaired by Aldo Cibic, and the three winners will receive iconic lamps designed by Gio Ponti.
IDI is not only a showcase, but also a tribute to design leaders whose work sets the benchmark for innovation and impact. This year's awards will once again highlight individuals and companies that represent excellence in their respective fields.
The 'Most Trending Brand' award celebrates the flagship product exhibited at IDI. This prestigious award honours a brand that challenges the limits of design and functionality, turning innovation into a tangible reality. Highly coveted by exhibitors, this award motivates brands to present their most cutting-edge products at the event.
The Most Influential Speaker award honours the individual who leaves the most significant impact through their presentation during the event's panel discussions. This award is given to a speaker who not only engages the audience, but also offers valuable insights and forward-looking ideas on topics related to inclusivity, innovation and sustainability.
This year, IDI is also introducing a new award focusing on the outstanding contribution of women in design. The 'Icons of Change: Women Shaping the Future' award recognises the work of extraordinary women who bring positive change to the world in a wide range of sectors and fields, including business, sustainability, leadership, health, education, product development, innovation and technology. The aim of this award is to recognise, celebrate, connect and support women in their roles as catalysts for change, pioneers and leaders.
The exhibition will foster a collaborative environment, bringing together world-class designers, brand representatives, entrepreneurs and academics. The event also promises ample opportunities for exchanging ideas, creating partnerships and shaping the future of design.
IDI 2024 was made possible thanks to the generous support of D'Andrea & Partners Legal Counsel, Diasorin, Hermes Reply, Manuli, Bertone Design NCC, Radici Group, TLSContact and Util. These partnerships provide substantial support and reflect the industry's high expectations for this event.
Thanks to these valuable partnerships, IDI 2024 is poised to inspire creativity and further strengthen Italy's position as a leader in the global design landscape. This edition will highlight the inclusive, innovative and sustainable values that underpin Italian design, setting new trends and charting the way towards a brighter future.
