Revered as the inventors of Mediterranean haute couture, Dolce&Gabbana’s runway collections are known for paying a less-than-subtle tribute to their Italian heritage, and specifically that of Sicily, a place both the designers call home. This powerful collaboration sees the design duo take their signature style and love of country to an entirely new level with Smeg’s iconic FAB28 retro refrigerator as the canvas.
From poetic theatre scenes, medieval knights and boats sailing off into in the Mediterranean sunset to brightly coloured majolica patterns, floral motifs, and enthralling landscapes – every art fridge presents its own an unfolding story. Each one is embellished in endless hours of intricate detailing with vibrant depictions unique to each artist’s region. Once complete the art piece is then carefully treated with a specialised glazed coating to ensure the continued preservation of the art itself.
This charming rendition, by artist Alice Valenti, pays homage to the Sicilian cart and the humble donkey, a loyal companion of the Sicilian cart driver, usually given human names such as Ciccio, Peppe or Gino. Here the donkey ‘Ciccio’ is beautifully depicted in elaborate ceremonial harnesses and framed in richly decorative elements applied to the Sicilian cart. The side panels and top of the fridge are adorned in a vibrant chromatic explosion of cartwheels and citrus fruits.
Combining the age-old and complex decorative art of the Sicilian cart, this artwork by artist Tommaso Provenzano is a romantic portrayal of a series of chivalric scenes of the paladins and duelling knights from epic Sicilian battle stories. These intricate depictions are framed with lively geometric painted motifs in a panoply of exquisite Mediterranean blues, reds, greens, and yellows that evoke Sicily’s sun-drenched landscapes.
SMEG South Africa
2985 William Nicol Drive, Bryanston, Johannesburg, South Africa
Phone 0027 (0)11 463 1016 - Email [email protected]
