ICCI Co-Hosts “Crafting the Contemporary: Architecture and Design between India and Italy” at the Venice Biennale

On November 11, 2025, the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Italy (ICCI) was honored to co-organize the symposium “Crafting the Contemporary: Architecture and Design between India and Italy, ” held last Tuesday as part of the Gens Public Program of the Fondazione La Biennale di Venezia.
The event was developed in collaboration with India Design ID by Ogaan Media, bringing together leading voices from the worlds of architecture, design, and craftsmanship.

This symposium provided a rare and meaningful opportunity to explore how Indian and Italian design traditions can engage in dialogue—blending heritage with innovation, materials with identity, and craftsmanship with contemporary expression.

A Cross-Cultural Dialogue on Craft and Innovation

The initiative was proposed by Ash Gujral, a member of the ICCI Advisory Board for Architecture and Design, whose vision was instrumental in shaping the program. ICCI would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to him, as well as to Marina Vienna, Luciano Pettoello Mantovani, Cecilia Giannini, and Tara Rosa Eleonora Percesepe, whose dedication and collaboration ensured the success of the event.

We would also like to thank the Biennale team for their support and the distinguished speakers who enriched the symposium with their insights:

• Misha Bains
  Fair Director, India Design ID; Publisher, ELLE DECOR India
  An influential curator of global design dialogues, connecting India’s creative industries with the international design ecosystem.
• Rooshad Shroff
  Architect; Founder, Rooshad Shroff Architecture + Design, Mumbai
  Renowned for his contemporary reinterpretation of traditional Indian craftsmanship through high-end architectural and design projects.
• Matteo Cibic
  Designer and multidisciplinary artist; Founder, Matteo Cibic Studio
  Known for his experimental, joyful aesthetic, blending art, design, and architecture in unconventional ways.
• Paola Marpillero
  Architect, Marpillero & Associati, Udine
  Expert in integrated architectural design and custom interiors rooted in local artisan traditions.

Design as a Cultural Bridge

The perspectives shared during the symposium highlighted how design can serve as a powerful bridge between Italy and India—connecting cultures through creativity, craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability.
From traditional artisanal techniques to contemporary architectural practices, the dialogue reaffirmed the value of cross-cultural collaboration in shaping the future of design.

A Warm Thank You to the Community

ICCI extends its sincere gratitude to all participants, speakers, partners, and supporters who contributed to the success of this important event. The symposium marked a significant step in strengthening cultural and creative ties between Italy and India, and ICCI remains committed to promoting similar initiatives that foster dialogue, exchange, and collaboration.