On the occasion of Italian Design Day 2026, the Consulate of Italy in Bengaluru organised a series of events to celebrate the history, innovation, and global influence of Italian design.
The day’s programme commenced with a morning keynote lecture at the Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Technology and Design by Antonella Andriani, Vice President of ADI (Associazione per il Disegno Industriale). Her lecture, titled “Sustainability and Technological Innovation in Fine Italian Design through the ADI Compasso d’Oro Award,” offered a comprehensive overview of the evolution and global relevance of the Compasso d’Oro award, drawing on selected case studies and award-winning products. The lecture, attended by 250 students and faculty from design disciplines, was followed by an engaging Q&A session and informal interactions.
In parallel Uni-Italia conducted an informative session outlining opportunities for higher education in design in Italy, followed by individual student consultations.
The programme continued in the evening with a panel discussion held at the Science Gallery Bengaluru, featuring Antonella Andriani; Federico Fraternale, designer and co-founder of Taro Studio & Taro Collective; and Nicola La Noce, Principal Architect and co-founder of Kumar La Noce. The discussion was moderated by Smitha Zachariah, founder of SZ Design.
In alignment with this year’s theme – “Re-Design: Regenerating spaces, objects, ideas, and relationships”- the panellists explored the essence of Italian design within the context of Southern India. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment with an audience of professionals from design, architecture, manufacturing, and related fields, as well as members of the local Italian community.
Following the panel discussion, the Icons of Design exhibition was formally inaugurated by Consul General Giandomenico Milano alongside Simone Vago, sharing insight into his family’s remarkable collection and design legacy – also recipient of the Career Compasso d’Oro.
The Icons of Design exhibition was conceived in alignment with the vision and theme of this year’s Italian Design Day by presenting enduring works that exemplify how thoughtful design can shape environments, influence lifestyles, and retain relevance across generations. The exhibition, curated by Antonella Andriani, featured ten iconic pieces by Compasso d’Oro-winning Italian designers and brands. The inauguration was followed by a private viewing of the exhibition and an aperitivo.
The exhibition was open to the public 10-12 April 2026 at the Science Gallery Bengaluru during regular visiting hours.
