Bologna ceramics trade fair Cersaie is kicking off its 40th anniversary by introducing a new showcase concept charting the past – and future – of the industry.
Taking place from 25 to 29 September 2023, the 40th edition of Cersaie – held at BolognaFiere – marks a new chapter for the international exhibition of ceramic tile and bathroom furnishings. This year’s driving concept, Route 40, speaks to the decades-long evolution of Cersaie, underlining the ceramic industry’s role in developing material and architectural design in Italy and abroad. The five-day event offers visitors a rich programme of fair activities, meetings and networking opportunities.
Bringing materials, education and visions for the future together, Cersaie 2023 will present ceramic tiles and bathroom furniture to the design community in a new way. ‘No longer confined to an autonomous and consequently limited dimension, these products will become part of a thought-provoking overall concept that encompasses space, quality of life and sustainability,’ says a statement from the organization. The fair’s reimagination is aimed at fostering the development of truly holistic design solutions indoors and out, facilitating strong connection between consumer and client.
Curated by Davide Vercelli and designed by Dario Curatolo, the Route 40 exhibition will be woven throughout the fairground. Prompting a look back to look forward, the content gives viewers insights into the major changes in culture, society, design and production that have shaped ceramics over the past 40 years. Adding to this opportunity for knowledge-building are workshops and keynote lectures – past speakers include 12 Pritzker Prize laureates. Award-winning Chinese architect Xu Tiantian – founder of the DnA Design and Architecture Firm – will be one such contributor to Cersaie’s Building, Dwelling, Thinking agenda this year.
Private individuals also have a place at the Bologna trade fair. In its 11th iteration, initiative Cersaie Designs Your Home provides free architectural and design advice to those thinking of renovating or buying a home. This year, 13 Italian interior design publications will participate, including Archiproducts, CerMagazine and more. Throughout the event, visitors – and online audiences – can additionally tune into Press Cafés, talks between editors and industry leaders investigating the foremost themes in design today.
Cersaie is promoted by Confindustria Ceramica in collaboration with BolognaFiere, organized by Edi.Cer. SpA with the support of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperations and Italian Trade Agency. Register for your free entrance ticket here.
