The iGuzzini Archive was established in 1995, with the aim of safeguarding the cultural heritage and historical documentation of iGuzzini illuminazione, founded in 1959.
Systematic census work has catalogued and archived some of the items produced, from prototypes to designs, paper and photographic materials, but also the oral sources (interviews and video interviews) of the professional figures involved in the various activities (entrepreneurs, designers, technicians). A wealth of testimonies that not only reconstructs the history and identity of the group but also represents a cross-section of Italian design and business culture, available to the public. In 2010, the iGuzzini Archive was declared of cultural interest by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities.
The Archive carries out cataloguing and research activities and functions as a study centre for scholars, students and business culture enthusiasts. Many cultural initiatives are promoted by the company. In 2005, Fimag, together with the University of Camerino and the Municipality of Recanati, promoted the establishment of the association ‘Il Paesaggio dell’Eccellenza’ (The Landscape of Excellence), which brings together the most significant companies in the area with the aim of establishing a museum of the industrial and craft culture of the Recanati district.
The iGuzzini Archive has two identities: one real and one virtual. The archive of physical documents is stored in cabinets and occupies 35 linear metres. It collects sketches and design studies, drawings, tables, exploded views of products, models and prototypes. The communication material consists of catalogues, graphics for forms, advertisements, sponsorships, posters, press releases and press presence. The photographic archive includes photographic prints and slides of realisations, events, products. There are more than 300 video interviews. Over 900 products are stored in the company. The Virtual Archive offers on the web an archive initially built thanks to the scientific advice of the design historian Anty Pansera.
