Arcolaio Art Prize Launches in Abruzzo with Francis Offman Residency

The first edition of the Arcolaio Art Prize has been launched by the Abruzzo-based textile company Arcolaio S.r.l., curated by Serena Schioppa in collaboration with Giulia Floris. The prize invites artist Francis Offman (born 1987 in Butare, Rwanda; lives and works in Bologna) for a residency and commission. Offman is currently working in the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park to develop a new artwork inspired by the company's Jacquard weaving tradition. The prize was conceived in late 2023 to mark Arcolaio's 70th anniversary, aiming to support a visual artist in creating a work using the company's resources and technical expertise, emphasizing territorial ties and sustainability. The company, founded in 1953, is now led by the third generation: sisters Olga, Mariana, and Mariachiara Perticara, granddaughters of founders Lucia and Antonio. CEO Olga Perticara drove the initiative, which builds on a decade-long collaboration with artists new to weaving. Offman's finished piece will be produced in Jacquard weave, accompanied by a capsule collection inspired by his practice. The prize is structured as an invited pilot edition, with plans to evolve through open calls and partnerships. Results will be presented to the public starting summer 2024.