To mark the 200th anniversary of the birth of Carlo Collodi, Marco Polo – The Italian School of Sydney presents a cultural program celebrating the author of The Adventures of Pinocchio.
The program includes a number of events throughout the year and complements the 26th Week of the Italian Language in the World, whose 2026 theme is “Lingua geniale: ideare, progettare, creare con l’italiano”.
On the proposal of the Embassy of Italy in Canberra, Marco Polo – The Italian School of Sydney is presenting Eccellenze Italiane. I vestiti nuovi di Pinocchio, a special international exhibition organised by the Bologna Children’s Book Fair and curated by Accademia Drosselmeier. Presented as part of the 26th Week of the Italian Language in the World, under the theme “Lingua geniale: ideare, progettare, creare con l’italiano”, the exhibition also celebrates the bicentenary of the birth of Carlo Collodi.
Sydney will host the Historical Illustrators Edition, featuring 29 exhibition panels: two introductory panels and 27 works by acclaimed Italian and international illustrators, including Emanuele Luzzati, Lorenzo Mattotti, Tony Wolf, Robert Ingpen, Nicoletta Ceccoli and Ferenc Pintér. The exhibition explores how generations of artists have continually reimagined Collodi’s famous wooden puppet, bringing together Italian language, literature, illustration and creativity.
FREE EVENT: Suitable for ages 10+ and all lovers of art, literature and Italian culture. Registration is required. Register HERE.
For additional information CLICK HERE
Workshops for Students and Teachers
Pinocchio-themed workshops for children and school-aged students will run alongside the main presentations. Afternoon workshops for teachers and the wider community will provide opportunities to explore Collodi’s work from literary, educational, linguistic and cultural perspectives.
Marco Polo Awards 2026
The event will also feature the presentation of the Marco Polo Awards 2026 for Excellence in Italian Language and Culture in NSW Schools, recognising outstanding students and teachers for their contribution to the learning, teaching and promotion of Italian language and culture across New South Wales.
Participation is free. Advance registration is required.
Morning tea, refreshments and a buffet lunch will be provided.
Full programme and registration details coming soon.