50 Years of NOVA – A da Vinci Synthetic Brush Icon Celebrates Its Anniversary
For 50 years, da Vinci NOVA has stood for quality, versatility, and reliability in the world of artists’ brushes. What began as an innovative synthetic fibre development has evolved over five decades into one of the most universal and most popular lines in the da Vinci range.
Distinctive Gold & Fir Green
From the very beginning, NOVA has been defined by the characteristic golden tone of its extra-fine synthetic fibres and the distinctive fir-green handle—a design that remains instantly recognisable to this day. Early on, the line impressed with its exceptional suitability for a wide range of painting techniques and surfaces.
Versatile All-Rounder with Short & Long Handles
Today, NOVA is used as a true all-round brush line for tempera and watercolour painting, oil and acrylic colours, demanding hobby painting, and much more. The extra-fine, golden-coloured synthetic fibre blend stands out for its high elasticity, excellent shape retention, and even paint absorption.
Celebrating the Anniversary
To mark the 50th anniversary, we have created two exclusive NOVA brush sets to celebrate this remarkable product milestone. One attractive version is available with short handles, and one with long handles. Both sets feature a special vintage design originally developed 50 years ago for the marketing of the NOVA line in collaboration with the renowned Nuremberg-based designer Jules Stauber—visually reflecting the rich heritage of this successful range. These limited-edition anniversary sets unite past and present for NOVA enthusiasts around the world.
With the 50th anniversary, da Vinci not only looks back with pride on the history of the NOVA series, but also looks ahead to the future with optimism—committed to preserving what has proven its value while continuing to open up new creative possibilities.
Interview: 50 Years of NOVA – A Conversation with Management
1. 50 years of NOVA – what does this anniversary mean for the company?
Answer: Fifty years of NOVA mark a very special milestone and an opportunity to look back with pride on what has been achieved. The anniversary represents five decades of dedication, innovative strength, and the trust of customers, partners, and employees alike. Mrs and Mr Defet showed great courage and a clear vision in expanding the natural hair brush range with these new fibres at such an early stage. At the same time, this anniversary motivates us to continue pursuing and developing this successful strategy.
2. Which values have shaped NOVA over the years?
Answer: Quality, reliability, and close proximity to the market through a broad expansion of brush shapes—these are what define the universality of NOVA. Our goal has always been to understand the needs of our customers across many techniques and to respond with well-designed, sustainable solutions, without losing sight of our roots.
3. What role do innovation and creativity play in the future of NOVA?
Answer: Innovation is a key driver of our success, while at the same time we place great emphasis on tradition and the know-how built up over generations. Never change a winning system! At the same time, we closely monitor market and technological trends and translate them into forward-looking solutions. Creativity and the courage to pursue new ideas are essential to ensuring long-term success.
4. What outlook do you have for the coming years of NOVA?
Answer: We view the future of NOVA very positively—there is no reason for pessimism. Our goal is to continue growing sustainably, to provide fresh impulses, and to remain true to our values. The coming years offer many opportunities, which we aim to seize with a strong team and a clear strategic direction.
