Elio Carmi, designer who rebranded Uffizi Galleries, dies at 71

Elio Carmi, the Italian graphic designer and branding expert who redesigned the brand identity of the Uffizi Galleries in Florence, died on January 8, 2024, at age 71 from pleural mesothelioma, a disease linked to asbestos exposure. Born in 1952 in Casale Monferrato, Carmi was a multifaceted figure: graphic designer, university professor, and creator of the Museo dei Lumi (Chanukkiot museum) in his hometown. He served as president of the local Jewish community from 2020, promoting the synagogue and its museum. In 2015, he designed the logo for the Italy Pavilion at Expo Milan; in 2020, his project for the Uffizi's brand identity won the Compasso d'Oro award. Carmi began his career in 1972, and in 1986 co-founded the agency Carmi e Ubertis in Milan with Alessandro Ubertis, focusing on integrated communication. Over 40 years, the studio worked with private companies (Axa, Ferrero, Generali, Gruppo 24 Ore) and public institutions (La Venaria Reale, Regione Lombardia, Triennale di Milano). He taught at IED Milan (1983-2017), Domus Academy (2010-2012), and Politecnico di Milano's Design School (2012-2014). In 2013, he co-authored the book "Branding D.O. Progettare la marca" with Elena Israela Wegher. The ADI (Industrial Design Association) remembered him as a promoter of integrated project culture. His funeral was held on January 10 at the Jewish cemetery in Casale Monferrato.