SERGIO MASSETTI E MONICA COLOMBARA

Masters of Paper

We are a couple of cartists, Monica Colombara and Sergio Massetti, sharing both our origin in Genoa and an insatiable love for paper.

However, our creative paths diverge, shaped by our individual experiences. Sergio’s endeavors lean towards the artistic and commercial, having crafted works for the windows of a renowned Italian fashion brand displayed in prestigious locations worldwide. Meanwhile, Monica’s approach is more artisanal and poetic.

Our minds are always seeking new applications and experiments, fueled by the spectacular variety of materials available. "Here and Now" is an invitation to act, a call that becomes an irresistible order for us to immediately put into practice what comes from our hearts and souls. "...I find no peace, night or day, but yet I take pleasure in languishing thus" (quote).

The concept of "making art" is ambiguous, especially in today's world where "how" often triumphs over "what." As for us, we devote ourselves entirely to creating beauty, involved regardless of market considerations.

We (Here and Now) "give birth" to works. They are parts of us, their DNA merging with ours, and their life ends where a new one begins. The "after" is left, when it exists, to the marketing manager.

Our attraction to paper was a matter of moments. We arrived at the finish line, but perhaps it preceded us by a few milliseconds... Handling paper is a tactile, physical, and spiritual pleasure. Our technique has evolved as mutual respect for this extraordinary living material grew. Sergio handles it as minimally as possible, studying deeply and for a long time the guidelines and gestures that will allow him, with its consent, to act. Monica transfers her innate delicacy imbued with a strong poetic sense and considerable cultural baggage into simple and ingenious forms.

For many artists, Art is a necessity, a duty. Creating works is a form of compensation to Fate from those gifted and able to assist those who lack this ability, unable to perceive the beauty that surrounds them. Another duty is to continually experiment with new forms of expression, without seeking shortcuts and always with absolute intellectual honesty.

Doing much just to do, or doing things without the spiritual support that is the origin of every creation, makes no sense or, at least in our opinion, cannot be considered Art.

To young people, we can suggest two paths, neither of which, however, disregards what has just been said. Art can be created with an eye on the market, seeking operators who know their way around in "how" and "where" it is necessary (these are the cornerstones of the "marketing mix"), or created by immersing oneself in the creative vortex without any constraints. In the former case, fame may be found, but one risks losing their identity by shaping it according to market trends that blur the value of an object with its cost. In the latter, one can proudly define themselves as Artists, but on a Bohemian backdrop, fascinating and... that's it.

We sincerely wish everyone to find complete satisfaction in a middle ground.

You can find us at the following web addresses: Monica Colombara: Website: mcol73@libero.it Facebook: Monica Colombara (caRtastorie)

Sergio Massetti: Website: sergiomassetti.it Instagram: sergio_massetti_cartista