INTERNATIONAL
ECO-SYSTEM LIGHTING THE INNOVATIVE AND GREEN
HERITAGE THROUGH TECHNOLOGIES
Going InternationaL: A global journey of design, innovation and cultural exchange.
The internationalisation pathway of Eco-Light aims to promote Italian creativity, design and innovation worldwide, building strategic connections between academia, industry and cultural institutions. Through international roadshows, partnerships and research collaborations, the project fosters knowledge exchange, artistic experimentation and global dissemination.
- Work Package 8 – Internationalisation
WP8 focuses on developing global relationships, promoting Italian excellence abroad and creating collaboration opportunities between institutions, companies and creative industries.
ROADSHOWS
Vancouver – Italian Design Week
The international journey of ECO-Light officially began in Vancouver (Canada), a strategic location chosen to launch the project’s global vision during the Italian Design Week. This high-profile context provided the ideal setting to engage an international audience deeply connected to Italian design, creativity and manufacturing excellence.
The initiative brought together a multidisciplinary ecosystem of institutional representatives, academics and industry leaders, fostering a meaningful dialogue around international promotion, global education, the future of fashion and the evolving role of digital art in expanding creative boundaries beyond physical limits.
The experience culminated in the “Night in Venice Gala”, an immersive fashion show that celebrated the fusion of tradition and innovation. The showcased collections highlighted the value of Italian craftsmanship, reinterpreted through a contemporary lens by emerging designers. The strong participation and international media resonance confirmed the project’s ability to act as a cultural and professional bridge, promoting Italian excellence on a global stage.
Dazu (China) – Strategic Cooperation
The second stage of the ECO-Light internationalisation path led to Dazu (Chongqing, China), marking a significant step in strengthening long-term cooperation between Italy and China. This mission represented a strategic evolution of the project, positioning it within a highly dynamic institutional and academic environment.
At the core of this experience was the dialogue between art, technology and cultural heritage, explored through innovative approaches to light art and creative experimentation. The initiative enabled the development of a solid network involving universities, cultural institutions and industry stakeholders, fostering knowledge exchange and opening new opportunities for joint projects.
A key milestone was the signature of a 5-year strategic agreement, establishing a structured collaboration focused on research, education, workshops and cultural initiatives. This achievement laid the foundation for a sustainable and scalable model of international cooperation, reinforcing ECO-Light as a platform capable of generating long-term impact.
Mumbai (India) – Future Development
The third international roadshow, originally planned in Mumbai (India), has been postponed due to recent geopolitical developments. Despite this, the project continues to strengthen its presence through strategic partnerships within the Indian creative and textile sector.
In particular, the collaboration with specialized companies in handmade embroidery represents a valuable opportunity to preserve and enhance traditional craftsmanship while integrating it into contemporary design and research processes.
This ongoing activity will lead to the development of a new section within the ECO-Light material library, featuring over 20,000 handcrafted embroidery samples, made available to students, researchers, companies and creative professionals. This initiative further reinforces the project’s commitment to knowledge dissemination, innovation and global cultural exchange.
PARTNERS
John Casablanca Institute – Vancouver
A leading institute in fashion, make-up and aesthetics education, with over 45 years of experience and a strong industry-oriented approach.
Italian Chamber of Commerce in Canada – West
A strategic organization supporting international business development between Italy and North America, through networking, consultancy and innovation services.
Chongqing Dazu High-Tech Zone – China
One of China’s key innovation districts, specializing in advanced technologies, R&D and industrial development.
Italian Trade Agency – Mumbai
A governmental agency promoting the internationalisation of Italian companies and supporting global business connections.
K J Somaiya College – Mumbai
A prestigious academic institution with over 6,500 students, recognized for excellence in education and research innovation.
Project supporters
IN partership with
financed by
“ECO-LIGHT” – acronym for “Eco-System Lighting the Innovative and Green Heritage through Technologies” – is an initiative funded under Directorial Decree No. 124/2023 of the Italian Ministry of University and Research (project code: INTAFAM000_49, E96E24000000001). The project is designed to enhance the AFAM network (Alta Formazione Artistica, Musicale e Coreutica) and promote its internationalization through a wide range of experiences, activities, and programs focused on communication, dissemination, awareness, education, research, and artistic production. These actions aim to preserve and promote Italian culture and the values of Made in Italy, supporting the transmission of heritage through innovation and sustainability. ECO-LIGHT is committed to broadening access to Italy’s rich cultural, artistic, musical, and choreographic heritage—ensuring optimal conditions for public engagement and enjoyment, while boosting its visibility and attractiveness on an international scale.
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