Interest and curiosity. Attention and engagement. What a triumph for Italian leather at Expo 2025 Osaka on the first of the two-day event “Forever Young: Italian leather and the value of time”. Hosted at the Italian pavilion, the event hit the mark straight away.
A triumph at Expo 2025 Osaka
Presentations, interactive sessions, workshops. Several storytelling formats, all crafted to weave a narrative grounded in a clear objective: to promote the all-encompassing cultural value of Italian leather and its associated supply chain. That means art and craftsmanship, of course. But also innovation and tradition, combined in a dynamic that becomes a constant drive towards the future. This was the essence of the opening presentation by Orietta Pelizzari (Lineapelle international fashion & lifestyle advisor): a historical journey through the chromatic identity of the colour red—from its Pompeian hues to its modern interpretations, culminating in “Japanese red”. The audience was also invited to engage their senses by handling various leathers and finished products, such as branded Brutus jackets.
The Tannery of Pompeii
This chromatic link led naturally into the following presentation by our director, Luca Fumagalli. The focus: the story of the “exemplary restoration” – funded by UNIC – Italian Tanneries and Lineapelle – of the tannery discovered in Pompeii in 1873. A story now told in a newly published book, launched in a special preview right here at Expo 2025 Osaka. The next link in the chain: the craftsmanship behind one of the standout specialities of Made in Italy, imbued with a deeply moving heritage. During two hands-on workshops, this legacy captured high levels of engagement. Leading the sessions was Alessandro Pellone of Gala Gloves. The day closed with a second talk by Orietta Pelizzari, focusing on themes of vintage and circularity. The title: Vintage Iconic of Leather.
How leather should be told
“The presence of UNIC at Expo 2025 Osaka represents a chapter in a story that places us firmly within the history of our country”, says Fulvia Bacchi, general director of UNIC. “It’s a role that goes beyond production alone — which already stands as a symbol of creative and innovative excellence — and speaks to a deep-rooted connection with history and culture”. These words align perfectly with the overarching theme of Italy’s presence in Osaka: “Art regenerates life”. In the same way, Italian tanneries regenerate a waste material – leather – and bring it back to life, elevating it to a benchmark material for fashion, design, and the automotive sector.
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