Riccardo Luna curates two Milan exhibitions on innovation and maker culture

Riccardo Luna, journalist and innovation expert, curated two exhibitions titled 'Make in Italy. The Exhibition' in Milan, running from May to August 2015 at the Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia and until October 2015 at Expo – Spazio Tim. In an interview with Artribune, Luna discusses the balance between thinking and making in innovation, emphasizing the resurgence of craftsmanship and the 'maker' movement in Italy. He highlights the role of digital technologies in revitalizing traditional artisanal skills, citing examples like 3D printing and CNC machines giving new life to Italian artisans. Luna points to historical Italian innovators like Olivetti and the telecom revolution by Tim in the 1990s. He notes that while large Italian companies like Telecom, Enel, and Eni hold many patents, a virtuous model of open innovation between startups and corporations is still lacking. Luna stresses the importance of education and investment in human capital, especially in developing countries, to achieve the UN Millennium Development Goals. He sees an opportunity for Italy to develop robotic services for its aging population. Luna advises young innovators that success is possible in Italy despite challenges, warning that some startup incubators may actually slow progress. The exhibitions showcase the 'Make in Italy' concept, blending tradition and technology.