The first international call for entries aimed at paper sculptors, painters, designers and artists was published in 2005 and the response was phenomenal, with about sixty artists from all over the world submitting their projects. A jury of experts and art critics selected the six most interesting ideas that then were built and showcased in Lucca’s main squares.

At the same time, two photographic exhibitions focusing on the world of paper and paper production were organized. Local photographers Enzo Cei and David Sani shared their artistic vision of the relationship between the Lucca area and the paper production districts zeroing in on human and social aspects. Enzo Cei focused on the interaction between man and the working environment, while David Sani concentrated on the architecture of old and new paper mills.