The Istituto del Design in Matera is an AFAM Institution (Advanced Education in Arts, Music and Dance) authorized by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) to award the Level 1 Academic Diploma in Design (class DAPL06, equivalent to the L3 Bachelor’s Degree class – Law No. 228/12, Art. 1, paragraphs 102-107), valid in Italy and abroad, granting access to national and international second-level programs such as master’s degrees and postgraduate courses.
Matera
IdD is based in Matera, one of the oldest cities in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993 and European Capital of Culture in 2019. Since the 1950s it has been an important place of experimentation and innovation, attracting renowned filmmakers and artists, and today it is one of Europe’s leading art cities. Matera is located at the heart not only of Southern Italy but also of the Mediterranean basin, highlighting the richness and diversity of cultures of which it is a crossroads, as well as their shared characteristics, strengthening European citizens’ sense of belonging and promoting culture as a tool for the city’s development. All this has brought international visibility, developing connections and partnerships at the European level.
Matera is located in an area characterized, among other things, by the coexistence of a rich craft tradition — particularly in woodworking and tufa stone carving — an ancient material culture, and significant industrial production in the furniture sector, concentrated mainly in the Murge area, known as the “Comparto del Salotto” (Living Room District).
Matera is constantly brought to life within the ancient urban core of the Sassi by numerous artistic and cultural events with international resonance.
IdD — Mission and Vision
Through its work in Advanced Artistic Education, IdD helps develop an innovative strategic vision for the city and the wider area, creating skills and employment, boosting innovation, countering the exodus of young people from the city and the southern regions, and offering new career prospects to young people from across Europe, especially in production sectors linked to creativity.
- IdD has signed numerous memorandums of understanding and forms of collaboration with institutions, public and private bodies, national and international associations and cultural institutions, companies, professional firms and craft workshops, continually enriching its artistic production and research
- IdD has organized teaching labs and workshops, involving other organizations, companies and craft workshops
- IdD has promoted several exhibitions showcasing the work of companies, artisans and designers, involving students in the design and creation of exhibition displays
- IdD has set up internship, guidance and traineeship services aimed at entry into the workforce
- IdD is a member of AIAP (Italian Association for Visual Communication Design)
- IdD is a full member of ADI (Industrial Design Association), maintaining close and ongoing relationships, particularly with the regional chapter ADI Puglia e Basilicata
- IdD collaborates with the Fondazione Sassi, carrying forward projects to further enhance the local artistic and historical heritage
