Bottega Veneta launches Accademia Labor et Ingenium to cultivate artisanal craftsmanship

In a continued dedication to nurture and advance artisanal craftsmanship, Bottega Veneta introduces the Accademia Labor et Ingenium — a Latin phrase embodying craft and creativity, as featured on the brand’s original crest.

Bottega Veneta is reinforcing its dedication to artisanal craftsmanship with the establishment of the Accademia Labor et Ingenium. This academy, situated between the Bottega Veneta atelier in Montebello Vicentino and a newly designated space at the brand’s manufacturing site in Povolaro Dueville, will serve as a permanent workshop. Here, employees, new recruits, and external students will have the opportunity to learn directly from master artisans through a range of training activities, workshops, and courses.

The academy’s focal point will be an extensive training program designed for 50 students annually, all of whom will be guaranteed employment at Bottega Veneta upon successful completion. This initiative will be overseen by a community of five highly skilled Bottega Veneta master artisans, embodying the collective spirit that has been at the heart of the company since its inception in 1966.

Furthermore, the Accademia Labor et Ingenium will offer upskilling and reskilling programs for existing Bottega Veneta staff, as well as engage in collaborative training endeavors with local partners. This will serve to not only celebrate the rich crafts of the Veneto region but also to impart and perpetuate the heritage of Made in Italy. This includes a ‘masterclass’ in partnership with Università Iuav di Venezia titled ‘The Artisanal Creative Process: Training Course in Bag Design & Product Development’. Bottega Veneta envisions that such collaborations will ensure the transfer of craft expertise across generations.