Bottega Veneta is taking a significant step in nurturing the next generation of artisanal talent with the launch of Accademia Labor et Ingenium this October. This academy represents a deepened commitment to the art of craftsmanship, drawing inspiration from the traditional “bottega” or workshop, where artisans have historically honed their skills and shared knowledge through generations. The academy’s name, “Labor et Ingenium,” reflects the brand’s founding values of “Craft and Creativity.”
Located in Montebello Vicentino at the Bottega Veneta atelier and a dedicated space at the brand’s manufacturing site in Povolaro Dueville, Accademia Labor et Ingenium serves as a permanent workshop. Here, Bottega Veneta employees, new recruits, and external students will have the opportunity to learn from master artisans through various training activities, workshops, and courses.
A central focus of the academy is a comprehensive training program designed to accommodate 50 students each year. Upon completion of the course, these students are guaranteed employment at Bottega Veneta. This program is led by a community of five Bottega Veneta master artisans and upholds the collective ethos that has defined the company since its inception in 1966.
In addition to its student-focused initiatives, Accademia Labor et Ingenium offers upskilling and reskilling programs for existing Bottega Veneta employees. Collaborations with regional partners are also on the horizon, promoting creativity and the rich heritage of the Veneto region while celebrating the “Made in Italy” tradition.
Leo Rongone, CEO of Bottega Veneta, emphasized the significance of Accademia Labor et Ingenium, stating, “Accademia Labor et Ingenium is a key strategic pillar to preserve Bottega Veneta’s unique savoir-faire. Exceptional craft and creativity are essential to our brand and to the heritage of our home region in Veneto. With the Accademia, we take the collective ethos at the heart of Bottega Veneta to a new level, building on our rich history of skill-sharing and innovation to nurture the artisans of the future.”
Accademia Labor et Ingenium’s first external collaboration begins on October 16th, with a bespoke seven-week masterclass in partnership with Università Iuav di Venezia. The program, titled “The Artisanal Creative Process: Training Course in Bag Design & Product Development,” will offer eight students a unique learning experience that combines classroom, virtual, and atelier-based sessions. The curriculum includes prototyping and production of various bag styles, insights into the luxury sector, and the development of professional communication and relationship-building skills.
Ruggero Negretto, one of Bottega Veneta’s longest-serving employees, joins the master artisan collective at Accademia Labor et Ingenium to pass on the skills, values, and company culture that have been an integral part of the brand’s legacy. Negretto expressed his honor and responsibility in transmitting this unique knowledge to a new generation, continuing the tradition of the bottega in all its community, creativity, and cultural heritage.
