Industry News
ANFAO Shines a Light on Italian Eyewear Heritage for National “Made in Italy” Day
Italian eyewear takes centre stage this May as ANFAO, the Italian Optical Goods Manufacturers’ Association, brings a unique cultural showcase to life for National “Made in Italy” Day, drawing international attention to the country’s storied manufacturing prowess.
The exhibition, titled “The Lens of Time – The History of Eyewear in Italy”, will be hosted at Palazzo Flangini in Venice from 7 May to 30 July 2025. Curated in collaboration with the Fondazione Museo dell’Occhiale, and supported by Fondazione di Venezia and Fondazione M9 – Museo del ‘900, the exhibit celebrates Italian craftsmanship, innovation, and design through the lens of its globally recognised eyewear industry.
With more than 100 curated pieces from museum archives and esteemed private collections, the display will chart the evolution of eyewear from its early origins in the 13th century to modern-day fashion statements. Highlights include rare artefacts from the Eyewear Museum of Pieve di Cadore and the personal collections of Venetian optician Roberto Vascellari and designer Lucio Stramare.
For Australian businesses with an eye on design-led manufacturing and sustainable production, this exhibition exemplifies the Italian model of blending cultural heritage with cutting-edge industry. Of particular relevance is the focus on the Belluno district, globally renowned for its concentration of high-end eyewear production — a benchmark for regional manufacturing clusters.
“The Lens of Time” aligns with the broader objectives of Italy’s Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT), which established National Made in Italy Day to honour and promote the nation’s creative industries and productive excellence.
Admission to the exhibit is free, offering a rare opportunity for business travellers and design professionals visiting Europe to explore the intricate relationship between fashion, function, and industrial innovation.
Event Details:
- Inauguration (by invitation only): 11:30 am, 7 May 2025
- Open to Public: 3 pm, 7 May – 5 pm, 30 July 2025
- Location: Palazzo Flangini, Calle Flangini 252, Cannaregio, Venezia
- Opening Hours: 11 am – 5 pm, Monday to Sunday
- Admission: Free
