Italy 150, Fila and Abitare present Matitalia

The contest to create the pencil to represent the 150th anniversary of the union of Italy

The contest to create the pencil to symbolise the 150th anniversary of the unity of Italy. Sponsored by the Turin World Design Capital and ADI - Association for Industrial Design.

Fila-Fabbrica Italiana Lapis e Affini and the Italy 150 Committee, promoter of the 150th anniversary celebrations for the unity of Italy to be held in 2011, join in partnership with magazine Abitare for the History of the Pencil exhibit to introduce Matitalia, a contest for all designers, professionals and young graduating students to create the anniversary pencil and encompasses and depicts Italian values and excellence.

The winning pencil will be the first "piece" in a collection the Committee is building, for 2011, searching and promoting the leading industrial and creative prototypes able to represent Italian identity.

Starting with a pencil was no accident. In fact, the pencil is the instrument of creativity, not just a design object but also an author. Once held by the artist, it becomes his co-star.

Fila, Italian leader in the office supply market with over 80 years experience and constant growth in the European and world market, is a partner in the project.

Turin World Design Capital and ADI - the Association for Industrial Design are sponsoring the event.

Contestant will be asked to create a unique object with an environmentally friendly innovative design, materials and ergonomics.. All submitted elements will be evaluated by an expert jury and winners will be announced at a public event organised by Italia 150.

Projects must be submitted to the 150 Italy Committee by or before March 31, 2009, indicating their category (Professional or Student).

for more information and the full contest regulations, visit www.italia150.it