Italian Design Moguls Launch Fondazione Vezza Public Art Project
A new contemporary art trail will open in Piedmont's historic woodlands next September.
1New Piedmontese Art Hub
The Fondazione Vezza project is set to launch in September 2027 within the scenic Langhe wine region. Located in Monforte d’Alba, approximately 60 kilometres southeast of Turin, the initiative transforms the woodlands surrounding the medieval monastery of San Pietro into a permanent, publicly accessible contemporary art destination for all visitors.
2Founders and Vision
Piedmontese entrepreneur Sandra Vezza and her son Charley are the primary forces behind this ambitious cultural endeavor. The duo, who previously established the Italian Radical Design Group in 2022, aim to foster a long-term dialogue between modern artistic expressions and the historical, natural landscape of the Colle San Pietro hill site.
3Inaugural Artistic Commissions
The project will debut with two large-scale, site-specific installations created by American sculptor Kathleen Ryan and Italian artist Alessandro Pessoli. These works are designed to integrate seamlessly with the woodland environment and the ruins of the San Pietro monastery, a complex that holds historical documentation dating back to the year 1014.
4Long-term Development Strategy
Flavio del Monte, formerly of the Massimo de Carlo gallery, has been appointed to oversee the foundation's operations. The strategy involves inviting new artists annually to engage with the site’s paths and architecture. This decade-long development plan ensures the art trail evolves continuously while preserving the original character of the historic location.
5Financial and Public Access
Sandra and Charley Vezza are personally funding the production of all commissioned artworks, though specific budget details remain confidential. The foundation has confirmed that all pieces will be permanently installed on-site. The venue will be entirely free to enter, reflecting the founders' goal of reaching the widest possible audience for contemporary art.
6Institutional Support Network
The initiative has garnered support from several prominent entities, including the Comune di Monforte and the Comune di Milano. Additionally, the Gagosian Gallery is listed among the project's supporters. This collaboration highlights the foundation's intent to establish itself as a significant player within the broader Italian contemporary art ecosystem and cultural landscape.
7Design Heritage Context
The Vezza family’s commitment to art is deeply rooted in their history of preserving Italian design. Through their Radical Design Group, they previously acquired iconic brands such as Memphis Milano and Gufram. This background in post-modern and pop art-inspired furniture informs their current approach to curating this expansive, outdoor public art project.
8Broader Regional Impact
This project joins a growing trend of private foundations establishing contemporary art hubs across northwestern Italy. By repurposing historical sites for modern creative use, the foundation contributes to the region's cultural tourism. Observers should monitor how these permanent installations influence the local landscape and future artistic programming in the Piedmont region.