Galleria Doris Ghetta

Locations

Galleria Doris Ghetta
Pontives Sud 8
39046 Ortisei (BZ)

Galleria Doris Ghetta
via Privata Ventura 6
20134 Milan

Contacts

Eleonora Castagna
T. +39 3518417401
Email
Website
Instagram

Category

Contemporary

Galleria Doris Ghetta, located in the picturesque setting of Val Gardena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, traces its origins to Doris Ghetta’s family’s picture-frame shop in the center of Ortisei. From these modest beginnings, the gallery was turned into a contemporary art space in 2014, marking a commitment to the preservation of cultural heritage, while embracing a future-oriented approach. With Eleonora Castagna as partner and a new location in Milan, the gallery opened a new chapter in 2022.

*The Day Before Yesterday*, 2023, installation view, Galleria Doris Ghetta, Ortisei. Photo: Luca Meneghel

Its guiding principle is to explore new humanism through introspective reflections on the return to nature. The program focuses on the symbiotic relationship between communities and landscapes, on striking a balance between habitats and on a constantly evolving imagery that combines art, culture and human narrative. The gallery serves as a meeting point for artists, encouraging diversity of expression and fostering a deeper understanding of humanity’s role in the natural world.

The project space, Garasc, provides further support for emerging artists, encouraging experimentation and the creation of site-specific works that integrate harmoniously with the gallery’s evolving ecosystem. Through initiatives such as the Gherdëina Biennale, founded by Doris Ghetta in 2008, Val Gardena has emerged as a place where artists and individuals can quietly engage with nature and culture.

*Schatten auf Schnee*, 2024, installation view, Galleria Doris Ghetta, Ortisei. Photo: Tiberio Sorvillo

The overall aim is to inspire a sustainable future through the transformative influence of art, taking a more understated, yet impactful, approach to fostering harmony between humanity and the natural world.

In conversation with Doris Ghetta, Galleria Doris Ghetta

When and how did you establish your gallery?

I set up my gallery after an initial collaboration (2010-2014) with a gallery owner from Milan. At first, we worked in a place in the center of Ortisei. Later, I decided to strike out on my own and found suitable premises in the industrial area of Ortisei. From there, I launched my gallery with my first group of artists, both local and international.

What were the main influences in your choice of profession?

My choice to pursue a career in the world of contemporary art was chiefly driven by my passion for art and my close friendship with local artists. In addition, the parallel public art project I started in 2008, the Biennale Gherdëina, contributed significantly to consolidating this passion into a profession. Working with local artists and the experience of promoting art through the Biennale have strengthened my commitment to the field of contemporary art.

Pietro Moretti, *Le storture del cactus*, 2023, installation view, Galleria Doris Ghetta, Milan. Photo: Luca Meneghel

Is there anything that distinguishes the two venues of your gallery?

The main gallery is located in a former industrial space that was once used for the production of snowcats. This place is pretty big and offers a large exhibition area divided into several spaces. The second location is in the Lambrate area of Milan and is a shared space in joint venture with the Boccanera Gallery. This collaboration allows us to broaden our outreach and offer artists a stimulating and dynamic environment in which they can exhibit their works.

What kind of message do you aim to convey through the art you exhibit?

Since I was born and raised in Ortisei, there is a profound connection between me, the local community and nature. This bond is an essential part of the message I try to get across through the art displayed in my gallery. I seek to select works that reflect this harmony and are in keeping with the surrounding environment. I want to convey a sense of appreciation for the beauty of nature and local culture, as well as prompt reflection on current and universal issues.

What role does art have in creating a better future?

Art plays a crucial role in shaping a better future by presenting themes that stimulate interest and reflection about current issues. Artists, with their unique sensibilities, can anticipate the challenges the world faces and highlight them through their works, thus inspiring positive change and fostering connection and empathy between people.

Read the full interview