Artemest Launches Champions of Craft: A Global Design Initiative Rooted in Heritage

In a move that further strengthens its position within the global design landscape, Artemest has introduced Champions of Craft—a new international initiative celebrating interior designers who place craftsmanship at the centre of their work.

Launched in 2026, the programme formalises Artemest’s long-standing commitment to promoting Italian artisanal heritage, while creating a platform for ongoing collaboration with leading studios around the world. It brings together a curated group of designers whose practices are defined by a shared appreciation for materiality, cultural storytelling and handmade excellence.

For over a decade, Artemest has connected designers and collectors with more than 1,000 artisans across Italy’s key manufacturing districts. Champions of Craft builds on this foundation—shifting the focus from individual projects to a broader, long-term dialogue between contemporary design and traditional craftsmanship.

The initiative will unfold across digital platforms and creative activations, with participating studios contributing to a series of editorial features, video content and collaborative projects. The aim is not only to celebrate craft, but to actively support its evolution within a modern, global context—something increasingly relevant within today’s design and luxury interiors sectors.

The inaugural cohort includes an influential mix of international names such as Rockwell Group, GACHOT and MAWD | March and White Design, reflecting a diverse range of creative perspectives while maintaining a consistent commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

To mark the launch, Artemest commissioned a bespoke sculptural award by contemporary glass artist Simone Crestani. The piece—crafted in transparent glass and inspired by the symbolism of the almond branch—acts as a poetic expression of renewal, permanence and the enduring value of craft.

For PR and marketing professionals, Champions of Craft highlights a broader industry shift towards purpose-driven storytelling and meaningful collaboration. In an increasingly saturated design market, initiatives like this demonstrate how brands can build relevance by investing in culture, community and long-term creative partnerships.

As Artemest continues to evolve, Champions of Craft positions the brand not just as a platform for discovery, but as an active participant in shaping the future of design—where heritage and innovation work hand in hand.