PORTRAIT OF THE ICON Gino Sarfatti – Pioneer of lighting design

Gino Sarfatti, the founder of Arteluce, left an indelible mark on the world of lighting design. Born in 1912. in Venice, Sarfatti studied engineering in his youth, but he soon turned his talent towards lighting design, founding Arteluce in 1939. age. His work is characterized by innovation, functionality and aesthetic appeal, which makes him one of the most important lighting designers of the 20th century. century.

Innovative approaches to lighting design

Sarfatti was known for his ability to combine different materials and technologies to create innovative lighting fixtures. His designs were not only aesthetically appealing but also offered practical solutions for everyday use. One of his most famous designs is model 2097, a chandelier that has become a symbol of modern lighting. This chandelier, designed in 1958. combines the elegance of traditional chandeliers with a modern, minimalist approach, using simple lines and exposed bulbs.

Photo: danke-galerie.com

Sarfatti was also a pioneer in the use of new technologies in lighting design. He experimented with fluorescent lamps, halogen lamps and innovative lighting systems. His ability to recognize and utilize technological innovations allowed him to create lighting fixtures that were ahead of their time. For example, the series of table lamps he designed for Arteluce included models with movable joints, which allowed users to adjust the light according to their needs.

Influence on contemporary lighting design

Gino Sarfatti’s designs left a deep impact on contemporary lighting design . His lighting fixtures are still produced and appreciated for their timeless aesthetics and functionality. His design philosophy, which emphasizes simplicity, innovation and functionality, has inspired many lighting designers today. His work can be found in many museums and galleries around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Photo: casatigallery.com

Arteluce, the company founded by Sarfatti, has become synonymous with quality lighting design. After Sarfatti’s death in 1985. , the company was taken over by Flos, which continued to produce and promote his designs. Today, Sarfatti’s lighting fixtures are still manufactured to the original specifications, ensuring that his legacy lives on through the generations.

Gino Sarfatti was not only a lighting designer; he was a visionary who changed the way we perceive and use light in our daily lives. His innovative designs, technical ingenuity and commitment to functionality and aesthetics laid the foundations of modern lighting design. Through his works, Sarfatti managed to combine art and technology, creating lighting fixtures that are still relevant and appreciated today.

For more information on Gino Sarfatti’s work and designs, visit Casati Gallery