MODERNISSIMO

_{A solo show commissioned by Spazio Leone}

_{East London-based gallery Spazio Leone is delighted to present “Tellurico: Modernissimo”, a showcase of contemporary and classic design. Opening to the public on the 26th of April, this special exhibition will feature over twenty works which blur the line between functional objects, furniture and sculpture, all with a keen focus on the possibilities of texture. Specially commissioned and existing pieces by Tellurico, the multidisciplinary design studio founded by Netherlands-based Italian designer Francesco Pace, will be on show alongside objects drawn from Spazio Leone’s collection.

Until now, Spazio Leone’s focus has predominantly been on collectible classic European design, but always with one eye on contemporary and emerging designers too. Now, they’re realising a long-held ambition – to help platform and spotlight the work of the most exciting new designers. “Part of what drew me to historical pieces initially was the exceptional quality and skill in the design, something which can be rare in our current era,” says Spazio founder Gennaro Leone. “But there are incredibly talented designers coming through now too, and if we want our current period to become part of design history, then it’s important we celebrate their work, and help support them to grow.”

This first show is borne out of a friendship with Tellurico’s Italian-born Francesco Pace, who studied in both Milan and Eindhoven and is now based in Eindhoven. Founded in 2017, Pace’s multidisciplinary design studio Tellurico has quickly established itself as a leading emerging name in design. Their work has been exhibited internationally, including at the Venice Biennale of Architecture, the Van Abbe Museum in Eindhoven, Beirut Design Fair, Italian Pavilion in Barcelona, and others. “Now more than ever, design needs a new crowd to refer to,” says Pace. “From different heritage and backgrounds, new opportunities can be born for the designer as well as for the final user.”

Special Thanks go to my dear friend and colleague Stefano Fusani and to
5Vie Milano and Athens Design Forum for collaborating with Spazio Leone for the show}

^{Concept and Creative Direction: Francesco Pace}
^{Design Development: Francesco Pace}
^{Typology: Solo show}
^{Client: Spazio Leone}
^{Production: Tellurico Laboratory}
^{Years: 2023}
^{Photo Courtesy: Genevieve Lutkin}