The debate at this national roundtable got underway with the observation that tapping into knowledge that has always existed in Italy to revive Italian arts and crafts industries is a key priority for the country given that, in the current difficult climate, they could serve as important drivers of economic development and growth. It was noted that there is a peculiar symbiosis in Italy between the manufacturing industry and arts and crafts. Indeed, the artisan’s workshop becomes a laboratory, a forge for new technologies, for never-before-seen crafts, and for often extraordinary international success stories. Many historical arts and crafts trades have over time managed to carve themselves a new role and image by reading changes in public demand. Certain areas of specialization, for instance, those linked to fashion or food and wine, are not merely cultural or professional phenomena that have clung on in a few protected areas, but rather have become important national industries.
The participants estimated that the contemporary crafts industry is made up of around ten thousand different trades, many of which have emerged in recent years. It was stressed that Italy – a country with a strong manufacturing focus that ranks as the second largest European exporter – should fully exploit this asset. Nevertheless, targeted measures were seen as essential in order to avoid squandering a unique and fragile resource that is not adequately protected. In fact, figures show that even this sector has contracted sharply over the course of the crisis. Between 2008 and 2012, the number of skilled artisans and workers in Made in Italy industries fell by 10% – a higher percentage than the average for national employment. One concern is that this decrease was more pronounced among young artisans. Overall, the number of small craft-based businesses over the same period fell by 6%, with an even higher drop among firms linked with Made in Italy products.
It was suggested, however, that while these overall figures point to a heavily beleaguered arts and crafts industry, there are positive signs indicating that there are strengths on which to build. Exports of products of superior craftsmanship have remained very buoyant and have grown even during the crisis, especially in the jewelry, eyewear, and food and wine sectors. There is also a huge – and as-yet largely untapped – consumption potential among the emerging middle classes, especially in Asia.
The roundtable discussants highlighted the need for urgent measures to protect and capitalize on what represents an important knowledge resource for Italy by, first and foremost, ensuring that “know-how” is passed on. Indeed, it was remarked that a failure to hand this knowledge down to new generations is translating into an often unrecoverable loss. With this in mind, it was felt that the education system should provide ways of opening up access to the world of trades and crafts. Furthermore, both schools and the media should promote the perception of art and craft trades as an opportunity for professional and personal development. Finally, also viewed as essential was the revival of apprenticeships, with contracts of employment that are tailored for and less disadvantageous to young people.
Considering the close historical link between local conditions and customs on the one hand and high-quality craftsmanship on the other, it was suggested that a heavy emphasis should be placed on protecting natural landscapes, industrial districts, and the virtuous circles that are fuelled by the relationship between local areas, tourism and arts and crafts. Preserving tradition entails embracing new digital technologies and online markets to promote and sell quality products. Also deemed worth fostering and developing were synergies between crafts and manufacturing, so as to facilitate access to international distribution channels combining innovation and technological renewal.
In conclusion, it was submitted that the state and public authorities should once again take a more diligent, proactive and coordinated role in internationally promoting the country’s excellence in arts and crafts. The legislative and bureaucratic framework was seen as currently placing an excessive burden on smaller firms, making simplification necessary without however sacrificing essential rules that ensure fair competition and protect product quality. Above all, it was deemed imperative to raise awareness of the role that excellent craftsmanship and art and craft trades play in defining “Italian style” – synonymous around the world with beauty, elegance, and the prestige of a unique body of tradition.