Modartech protagonist with The AFAM Roadshow

Pontedera is preparing to host a major event in the creative sector: “The AFAM Roadshow. Research. Creativity. Innovation.” This traveling initiative celebrates the excellence of Italian Higher Education Institutions in the Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM), fostering a dialogue between art, technology, and scientific research through collaborations with the National Research Council ISPC, Sapienza University of Rome and the support of RUFA – Rome University of Fine Arts.

Istituto Modartech will be the protagonist of the Pontedera stop, in collaboration with the Piaggio Museum, under the patronage of the Municipality of Pontedera and in partnership with Artes 4.0 and the BioRobotics Institute of Sant’Anna School. The event will focus on the theme “Visions: Design & Hi-Tech,” scheduled for Tuesday, April 15, in celebration of National Made in Italy Day. This event presents an important opportunity to explore the synergies between innovation, design, and technology, with a focus on the role of creativity in redefining the future of production and design.

The initiative is organized into several segments: the Opening Ceremony will include speeches from key local institutions. Following this, the Table Talks—generative workshops and thematic think tanks—will offer a space for discussions among professors, artists, Digital Cultural Heritage professionals, and representatives of cultural and creative organizations, creating a rich exchange between art and technology.

The Genius Academy will provide an opportunity for advanced training, offering master lectures mainly aimed at students to explore specific topics in depth.

Another key moment will be the PopUp Show, an exhibition area dedicated to digital art and interactive installations created by students and alumni of AFAM institutions with the support of the CNR. Here, young talents will present their works and concepts, showing how innovation is reshaping the way we conceive and experience design.

Finally, the Closing Ceremony will highlight the current state of Digital Cultural Heritage, outlining new challenges and perspectives for the future.

Through this event, Istituto Modartech reaffirms its role as a leading institution in education for the fashion and design sectors, fostering dialogue between students, professionals, and companies for shared and innovative growth.

Participation in the event is free. Registration is required for the “Genius Academy” (limited spots available).

The AFAM Roadshow is part of the first phase of the biennial program of the GTA Grand Tour AFAM, an international project that promotes Italian culture and creativity through research and artistic production. Coordinated by the lead partner RUFA – Rome University of Fine Arts, GTA involves sixteen partners, including AFAM institutions and public entities. Structured in two phases – “Creating in Italy” and “Networking” – Grand Tour AFAM develops training and creative pathways both in Italy and abroad, fostering cultural exchange and the internationalization of Higher Artistic Education.

Focus Genius Academy