Craft ecosystem in
Bassano del Grappa, Italy
About Bassano del Grappa
The artisanal ecosystem in Bassano del Grappa thrives across the city and neighboring municipalities, fostering enduring relationships, notably with municipalities like Nove, dating back to the early days of industrialization. Positioned in northeastern Italy, it lies between the cities of Vicenza and Treviso, Padova and Venice.
Bassano del Grappa, Italy
About ecosystem
The ecosystem of Bassano del Grappa’s craftsmanship is certainly internationally known for the production of ceramics, an activity that has been widespread in the area since the 17th century: the strategic location of the two riverside towns (Bassano’s Brenta and Nove’s Roggia Isacchina), and the large quantity of calcium, silica and quartz-based pebbles helped create the perfect raw material.
In 2017, it was identified by the Veneto Region as the “Artistic Ceramics District of Nove and Bassano del Grappa.
With Regional Law No. 13/2014, the industrial district takes on the role of a local production system characterized by a high concentration of manufacturing companies of an industrial and artisan nature, whose size must be predominantly small or medium-sized (SMEs).
In detail, the elements that qualify a Veneto industrial district and make it such are: territoriality, i.e. the concentration of enterprises within a specific territory; the organization of production according to the logic of production chain; the historicity of the district as qualitatively detectable also through the available scientific literature; and, last but not least, the ability to be a relevant system also in the international sphere, demonstrable by the propensity for innovation as well as by its projection on international markets.
On the other hand, the ecosystem is not limited to the production of ceramics but includes other productions such as paper and printing, which have been present since the mid-1600s, and artistic furniture, which had an important development between the two great wars and gold and textiles, also of ancient origin.
Why Bassano del Grappa is chosen to be one of the HEPHAESTUS craft ecosystems
The craft ecosystem in Bassano has been chosen due to its rich history and tradition as a “distretto” in craft. Craft communities in Bassano have stood the test of time, passing down skills and expertise through generations. This historical depth provides a unique opportunity for HEPHAESTUS to explore and preserve traditional craftsmanship while integrating modern approaches.
The main challenges of the Bassano del Grappa in the context of craft
- Adaptation to AI and new technologies: The Bassano Del Grappa ecosystem faces a challenge in navigating the integration of AI and new technologies, which have the potential to simulate the unique human-driven aspects of craftmanship. Striking a balance between preserving the artisanal creativity and incorporating technological advancements poses a significant hurdle for local craftmakers.
- Workforce shortage and generational turnover: The traditional crafts in Bassano Del Grappa grapple with the dual challenges of a diminishing workforce and generational turnover. The younger generations often find these artisanal activities less appealing, contributing to a shortage of skilled workers. Addressing this issue is crucial for the sustainability and continuity of these high-value crafts.
- Environmental impact and energy-intensive activities: Some craft activities in the ecosystem, such as ceramics, may be energy-intensive, raising environmental concerns. Balancing the preservation of traditional crafts with eco-friendly practices is a challenge, as there is a need to minimize the environmental impact without compromising the essence of these crafts. Finding sustainable solutions for energy consumption is paramount for the long-term viability of such activities.
Craftmakers in the ecosystem
While the Bassano del Grappa ecosystem comprises various types of craftmakers, here are some of the most prominently represented to offer you a glimpse.
Craftmakers currently involved in the HEPHAESTUS project as craft ambassadors
The project HEPHAESTUS expected impact on Bassano del Grappa ecosystem
The goal of Project HEPHAESTUS is to enable representatives of Bassano’s craftsmanship to actively participate in a European dialogue involving numerous sector players, creating a valuable development opportunity for the entire ecosystem. Our objective is to initiate a dialogue with all stakeholders in our ecosystem, seeking collaborative forms that will enable us to explore actions ensuring the prosperity of our local craftsmanship. This, in turn, preserves both tangible and intangible aspects, representing an invaluable cultural and economic heritage.
Throughout the project, our aim is to engage artisans and stakeholders across the entire ecosystem in research endeavors. The goal is to assess the challenges and opportunities within the current and future production and social systems. Together, we will contemplate the future of these activities, focusing on strategies to provide meaningful support.
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Responsible for the HEPHAESTUS project ecosystem in Bassano del Grappa, Italy
Simone Giotto
Senior project manager
Simone Giottoa is a senior project manager with in-depth knowledge of the development and management of complex projects and, in particular, those financed with European funds. He has over a decade of experience working with public and private entities in social, cultural innovation, and territorial development. He is also involved in training and social impact assessment.
Contact Simone for more information:
- Phone: +33 97928393
- E-mail: simone.giotto@alterevo.eu