Skopje, 14 March 2024 (MIA) — "Dearest Pinocchio", an exhibition of objects and wooden toys made by various Italian companies to celebrate the 140th anniversary of Italian writer Carlo Collodi's children's book "The Adventures of Pinocchio" opened at the National Gallery Chifte Hammam on Thursday. It will run through March 28.

One of the exhibit's curators, Italian designer Luca Madonini, said at the opening that "Dearest Pinocchio" showcased 60 products made by 30 designers and 30 graphic designers.

"The result is a collection that tells the complexity of Pinocchio's story and his adventures. You cannot find two similar Pinocchios in this exhibition," he said. 

Madonini added that the designed objects on display ranged from vases and candle holders inspired by Pinocchio to wooden toys made by Italian manufacturers.

The exhibit is part of the Italian Design Days in Skopje organized by the Embassy of Italy and the Italian Trade Agency.

National Gallery director Dita Starova Qerimi said the exibit was created by Milan's ADI Design Museum and this was the first time that it had been shown outside of Italy.

"The exhibition touches on several cultural and humanistic aspects, apart from linking literature and design. It is an inclusive exhibition suitable for both children and adults," Starova Qerimi said.

Italian Ambassador Andrea Silvestri said organized visits were already scheduled for elementary schoolchildren, including children with disabilities.

"We will organize a children's workshop for making Pinocchio dolls of wood and other materials," Ambassador Silvestri said.

At the opening of the exhibit, Ambassador Silvestri awarded Starova Qerimi with the Order of the Star of Italy, conferred by the President of the Republic on the proposal of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, for nurturing personal and professional relations with Italy.

The Order of the Star of Italy (Italian: Ordine della Stella d'Italia) is an Italian order of chivalry founded in 1947 under the name Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity.

Since 2011, it honors individuals who have acquired special merit in the promotion of friendly ties and cooperation between Italy and other countries. mr/