In the early 1950’s in Garfagnana, Anna Pedri (owner of the Company Artes) proposed to numerous handweavers to unite their handweaving looms to promote and develop their techniques.

In a few years, these weavers, united in a small workshop, grew in number up to 80, creating one of the first and big women’s companies.

Today Artes (Artigianato Tessile – textile handcraft ) is on its 3rd generation of weavers and has 16 ancient chestnut looms. it weaves traditional fabrics using the traditional lucchese technique dating back to 12th century..

 

The textile school of Garfagnana originated from this important tradition of the territory and history, to provide an experience made of theory but to testimony life styles, objects, simbols and creativity of the past, to better understand the link between old traditions and future.

The ancient art of handweaving does not only give a clear example of handcrafting but also to learn and show human richness in an artistic and symbolic way.