Pomellato dazzles Shanghai with first retrospective

Italian jewellery brand Pomellato has opened its first-ever retrospective, "Art & Jewelry: Pomellato’s Legacy of Creativity and Craftsmanship, From 1967 to Today," at the Fosun Art Foundation in Shanghai. The exhibition, which runs until 24 November, showcases the brand's evolution from its founding in 1967 to its present status as a leader in Italian luxury design.

Step into the 1970s: Bold, creative chains epitomising the free-spirited aesthetic of the era, a defining moment in Pomellato’s avant-garde jewellery design." Art & Jewelry Pomellato Exhibition Shanghai November 2024  

Highlights of the Exhibition

Curated by Alba Cappellieri, Head of Jewellery Design at Politecnico di Milano, the exhibition features over 100 iconic jewels alongside historic advertising campaigns by renowned photographers such as Gian Paolo Barbieri, Michel Comte, and Lord Snowdon. It is structured around three decades of design innovation:

- 1970s: Bold chains representing the era's free-spirited aesthetic. 

- 1980s: Vivid gemstones reflecting vibrant, daring energy.

- 1990s: Sculptural designs embodying women’s empowerment and visual culture.

The exhibition also includes modern installations, such as a photographic series by Chinese artist Chen Man and AI-generated portraits by Milanese artists Alberto Maria Colombo and Anna Paladini, offering a contemporary perspective on the brand’s legacy.

The entrance to the exhibition features a stunning 1971 portrait by legendary photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri, setting the stage for Pomellato’s iconic journey through artistry and design. "Art & Jewelry" Pomellato Exhibition Shanghai November 2024. 1971 © Gian Paolo Barbieri Courtesy Fondazione Gian Paolo Barbieri

Opening Event and Gala Dinner

The launch event, hosted by Pomellato CEO Sabina Belli and Chief Marketing and Product Officer Boris Barboni, included a gala dinner featuring a performance by international pianist Wu Muye and a rock ballet by dancers from the Shanghai Theatre Academy.

Renowned pianist Wu Muye, a graduate of the Paris Conservatoire and recipient of numerous international awards, delivered a captivating performance of romantic-era masterpieces at the opening evening of Pomellato’s "Art & Jewelry"exhibition in Shanghai.

Guests included prominent figures such as actor Liu Yuning, actress Ma Yili, and Winter Olympics champion Yang Yang, along with media representatives and institutional leaders.

Ma Yili, an acclaimed Chinese actress known for her roles in "The First Half of My Life" and "Miss S", attended the opening evening of Pomellato’s "Art & Jewelry" exhibition in November in Shanghai.

A Tribute to Milanese Craftsmanship

The exhibition pays homage to Milan, the brand's birthplace, and its influence on Pomellato’s distinctive style. Sabina Belli highlighted the Maison's focus on craftsmanship and individuality, stating, “Since 1967, Pomellato has championed creativity and female empowerment. This exhibition celebrates our legacy and the fearless women who inspire us.”

Over 100 iconic jewels from the brand’s collections are displayed at the "Art & Jewelry" Pomellato Exhibition Shanghai November 2024.

Public Access and Travel Information

"Art & Jewelry" is open until 24 November 2024 at the Fosun Art Foundation, 600 Zhongshan East 2nd Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, just a five-minute walk from Yuyuan Garden Metro Station (Line 10). Located near Yu Garden and the Bund, the exhibition is free to enter and offers a unique glimpse into Pomellato’s artistry and design legacy.

The Fosun Art Foundation in Shanghai was designed by Foster + Partners and Heatherwick Studio in 2013 and completed in 2017. The building features a dynamic, curtain-like facade inspired by traditional Chinese theatre, serving as the venue for Pomellato's "Art & Jewelry" exhibition