When it comes to the world of art, sculpture, and design, we often find ourselves navigating distinct realms, each with its own set of rules and definitions. However, there's a quiet revolution happening at the intersection of these disciplines, and it's time we paid attention. Enter Gallery Twenty Twenty, a visionary space in Sydney's Alexandria, founded by Salvatore Fazzari, the mastermind behind Mobilia.
Fazzari's journey is an intriguing one. With a background in product and interior design, he has long been fascinated by the blurred lines between art, design, and sculpture. He believes that the most compelling contemporary works emerge from this convergence, challenging traditional notions of function and form. In his own words, "When these disciplines overlap, they allow objects to transcend their usability and become cultural artifacts."
The Birth of Gallery Twenty Twenty
Gallery Twenty Twenty is Fazzari's response to a gap he identified in the market. Over the years, he developed strong relationships with international makers and artists, many of whom were creating works that straddled the line between design and art. These pieces, he felt, deserved a dedicated space where they could be appreciated and understood on a deeper level.
"We wanted to create an environment where museum-quality, collectible works could be displayed and purchased within a gallery framework," Fazzari explains. "This allows for a more intimate and engaging experience with each piece and its maker."
A Space for Contemplation
The gallery's interior, designed by K.P.D.O., is a masterpiece in itself. It's a deliberately sparse and architectural space, serving as a backdrop for the works on display. Fazzari wanted a quiet and carefully considered environment, one that would enhance, rather than compete with, the pieces.
"Materials were chosen for their subtlety and texture," he says. "The layout ensures each piece has its own presence and space, allowing visitors to engage with them on a personal level."
Horizon: An Inaugural Exhibition
For Gallery Twenty Twenty's inaugural exhibition, Fazzari tapped internationally acclaimed architect and designer, Joris Poggioli. Trained in sculpture and architecture, Poggioli's work is a testament to the power of form and materiality. His pieces are both intimate and monumental, influencing and animating the spaces they inhabit.
"Poggioli's obsession with form is evident in his work," Fazzari notes. "He once crafted a collection using the cheapest material he could find, believing that if people fell in love with his work despite the accessibility of the material, it would prove the power of form."
A Curated Vision
Maintaining a clear curatorial direction was a challenge for Fazzari. With a wealth of talented artists interested in entering the Australian market, he had to be selective. "It was never about scale," he emphasizes. "We wanted to build a roster that reflected the gallery's identity and contributed to a broader narrative."
Gallery Twenty Twenty's future exhibitions promise to be just as impressive, featuring limited-edition pieces by Australian and international designers such as Michael Anastassiades, Linde Freya Tangelder, and many more.
Redefining Design in Australia
Gallery Twenty Twenty is more than just an exhibition space. It's a catalyst for redefining how we perceive and engage with design in Australia. Fazzari believes it creates the right conditions for collectible design to be experienced with the same depth and seriousness as fine art.
"We hope that Gallery Twenty Twenty will become a point of reference for collectors, designers, and the wider cultural community," he says. "It's an exciting journey, and we're only just beginning."
What makes Gallery Twenty Twenty so fascinating is its potential to reshape our understanding of art, design, and sculpture. By blurring the lines between these disciplines, it invites us to think more deeply about the objects we interact with and the stories they tell. It's a space where form and function converge, and where the power of creativity knows no bounds.
