ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

ITS International Talent Support Celebrates 18 Years with Creative Archive and Arcademy

festival-fair · 2026-05-04

Founded in 2001 by Barbara Franchin, ITS – International Talent Support stands as the premier platform for up-and-coming talent in fashion, accessories, and jewelry design. The competition reaches its peak in mid-July in Trieste, featuring over 580 finalists, many of whom have secured significant roles at leading brands or are launching their own collections. ITS has established the ITS Creative Archive, which chronicles the evolution of fashion with 17,000 portfolios, 220 garments, 120 accessories, 80 jewelry items, and 700 digital photography projects from more than 80 nations. Notable early works from designers like Demna Gvasalia and Richard Quinn are included. The ITS Arcademy, set to open in 2020, will offer both exhibition and educational opportunities for a wide audience. Franchin believes ITS is essential for fostering design discussions and stimulating community economic development.

Key facts

  • ITS – International Talent Support was founded in 2001 by Barbara Franchin and her agency EVE.
  • The competition culminates in mid-July in Trieste.
  • Over 580 finalists have been selected; many now work at major brands or have successful personal lines.
  • ITS Creative Archive includes 17,000 portfolios, over 220 garments, 120 accessories, 80 jewelry pieces, and over 700 digital photography projects from over 80 countries.
  • The archive features early works by Demna Gvasalia, Aitor Throup, Peter Pilotto, Richard Quinn, and Yuima Nakazato.
  • ITS Arcademy will open in 2020, combining exhibition and educational spaces.
  • The educational component includes Pop (for schools, tourists, local community) and Professional (for industry professionals).
  • Barbara Franchin is the Founder and Director of ITS.

Entities

Artists

  • Barbara Franchin
  • Demna Gvasalia
  • Aitor Throup
  • Peter Pilotto
  • Richard Quinn
  • Yuima Nakazato

Institutions

  • ITS – International Talent Support
  • EVE
  • ITS Creative Archive
  • ITS Arcademy
  • Balenciaga

Locations

  • Trieste
  • Italy

Sources