On April 18, 2026, at the magnificent Castle of Carovigno, an extraordinary event dedicated to the excellence of Made in Italy from Southern Italy was held. Among the protagonists of this important event was the **Espressioni d’Arte Association from Ostuni**, which has been passionately committed for ten years to promoting culture through painting, sculpture, writing, photography, and music.
With great pride, the association received the certificate of excellence “**Made in Italy and the Excellence of the Territory**,” a prestigious recognition awarded by Epli Nazionale and the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy. This award underscores the association's ongoing commitment to promoting quality, authenticity, and intangible cultural heritage, as well as safeguarding professionalism and traditional knowledge.
The initiative, included in the official calendar of the Made in Italy Day 2026 and organized by EPLI, saw the active participation of the Pro Loco of Carovigno and Ostuni Marina with the patronage of the Municipality of Carovigno. During the event, the Ministry awarded this certificate to the Espressioni d’Arte Association, recognizing its fundamental role in enhancing local artistic productions and defending cultural heritage.
The award was presented to the association's president, Ruggero Cairo, who highlighted the importance of teamwork with the collaborating Pro Loco and the concrete application of the concept of cultural tourism. The day represented not only a celebratory moment but also an opportunity for discussion and training, thanks to the contributions of representatives from the educational, associative, and tourism sectors.
Puglia, in the context of Made in Italy, confirms itself as one of the most dynamic regions, capable of integrating cultural heritage, food and wine excellence, and tourist offerings. A strong system based on the excellence of hospitality. Sixteen members of the association participated in the day, contributing to the success of the event through various activities: painters and photographers exhibited works and images representative of the territory, while the photography group took care of the photographic service and video recording of the entire event. The communications team managed the Facebook live stream and interviews, ensuring wide dissemination and participation.
A special thank you was extended to the volunteer members who, with dedication and expertise, carry forward cultural dissemination, which is fundamental to the association's mission: **Antonio Bangrazi, Maria Consiglia Maglionico, Miriam Tamburrino, Cosimo Roma, Lucia Cairo, Rosaria Piccione, Cinzia de Vita, Daniela Marzio, Renato Caracuta, Michele Lops, Franca Gallone, Nancy Gesario, Pino Colucci, Giuseppe Roma, Antonello Valerio Villani, and Donatella Palma.**
**Activities**
The concept of Made in Italy, celebrated on this occasion, represents much more than a simple commercial brand; it is a globally recognized symbol of quality, innovation, tradition, ingenuity, and taste. Espressioni d’Arte interprets this value by promoting culture as a driver of economic and social development, with particular attention to new generations and their creative abilities.
The current challenge for the association lies in integrating art, culture, and the local production fabric, enhancing not only the material heritage but especially the immaterial heritage that makes Southern Italy unique. In this perspective, widespread cultural tourism proves to be an essential strategic lever. Espressioni d’Arte supports an innovative approach that transcends traditional tourist circuits, involving smaller and peripheral areas that are often overlooked but rich in authentic resources and untapped potential.
The organization of cultural events that recover and reinvent local traditions, art exhibitions dedicated to contemporary artists, and the creative use of historical spaces, such as decommissioned churches or masserie, are tangible examples of how culture and tourism can generate inclusive and sustainable offerings. A crucial aspect of this model is the de-seasonalization of the tourist offer, which allows for the distribution of flows throughout the year, avoiding overcrowding and creating more economic opportunities for local communities.
In this process, young people play a central role: their creativity and ideas are the driving force behind a cultural and productive transformation that looks to the future without forgetting the deep roots of the territory. The association constantly promotes projects and collaborations that network art, tourism, and business, enhancing emerging talents as an investment for tomorrow.
In recent years, Espressioni d’Arte has organized significant exhibitions in masserie and churches in Puglia, such as the Church of the Holy Spirit in Ostuni and the Church of Santa Maria della Fontana in Brindisi. These exhibitions celebrated the territory in its multiple forms: flora, fauna, rural architecture, sacred art, and ancient crafts, spanning from classical to modern art and contemporary expressions. Such initiatives have fostered the creation of cultural bridges, strengthening the role of art as a driving force for local development and expanding the association's commitment beyond the region.
The recognition obtained from EPLI Nazionale and the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy thus represents a significant moment of celebration but also of great responsibility. Espressioni d’Arte renews its commitment to work with passion and dedication to continue enhancing Made in Italy in all its expressions, confident in the cultural, creative, and human potential of the territory. With this spirit, the association looks to the future with optimism, convinced that art, tradition, and innovation can together build a tomorrow rich in beauty and opportunities for everyone.
Web:
www.espressionidarte.eu/ass...
Carovigno
Art & photography
Food and wine
Cultural
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