The "Exploring Fabriano Paper: history, arte and preservation" program
From October 14 to 17, 2025, the city of Fabriano warmly welcomed the international program “Exploring Fabriano Paper: History, Art and Preservation”, an English-language training event designed for conservators, restorers, and archivists from around the world. Promoted by the Fondazione Fedrigoni Fabriano (FFF) and Sylvia Albro, former Senior Paper Conservator at the Library of Congress and member of the Foundation’s Scientific Committee, the program was made possible through the collaboration of Fedrigoni SpA, the Municipality of Fabriano, the Pia Università dei Cartai, restorer Stefania Zeppieri, Carifac'Arte, and with the patronage of the Marche Region.
This unique and intensive experience was conceived to showcase Fabriano’s extraordinary legacy in papermaking. Through guided tours, hands-on workshops, lectures, and moments of exchange, participants explored both traditional and contemporary techniques of paper production, restoration, and preservation.
Led by industry experts—craftspeople, restorers, historians, and technicians—participants from some of the world’s most prestigious museums, archives, and libraries—including the Library of Congress in Washington, New York University, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston—had the opportunity to closely observe work in laboratories and production facilities, engaging directly with those who keep this centuries-old tradition alive. The program fostered a valuable exchange of skills, experiences, and perspectives, strengthening the connection between the past and future of paper.