Can You See the Void? Costantino Gucci’s Art of Shifting Realities

Dettaglio con mano specchio unknt by Celo1 di Costantino Gucci - foto by Matteo Bellomo Stefania Zanetti

Costantino Gucci, the visionary artist and founder of Celo1, is redefining design as an immersive experience that blends timeless craftsmanship with modern storytelling and cosmic themes. His creations go beyond mere visuals—are you ready to dive into his universe?

Dettaglio con mano specchio unknt by Celo1 di Costantino Gucci - foto by Matteo Bellomo Stefania Zanetti

10/01/2025

By Veronica Federici and Elea Baumgartner. Cover Specchio Unknt by Celo1, image courtesy Matteo Bellomo and Stefania Zanetti

Costantino Gucci is one of the most intriguing and innovative figures in contemporary art and design. His ability to blend art, design and craftsmanship into a unique language has established him as a reference point for those seeking works that evoke emotion and reflection. His creations go beyond mere aesthetics; they serve as deep narratives, mirrors of the soul, and vehicles for exploring universal themes such as time, perception, nature, and our relationship with it.

From Craft to Cosmos: The Evolution of Costantino Gucci’s Artistic Soul

Born into a family of artisans, Costantino Gucci grew up surrounded by creativity, where craftsmanship was revered as art. This early exposure ignited his passion for visual art, design, and craftsmanship, refining his eye for beauty and detail. After graduating in Art and Design from Central Saint Martins in 2018, he embarked on a global journey to deepen his creative education. His connection to fine art only grew stronger, with Gucci viewing art as an extension of his own body, sharing his artistic soul with his audience.

Costantino Gucci's portrait

His career began with challenges, but everything changed when he joined Artefatto Design Studio. Known for creating collectable designs that blend functional art with contemporary decor, Artefatto transformed his understanding of design, teaching him that design should be experienced, not just seen. At Artefatto, Costantino explored new shapes, materials, and textures, experimenting with objects that combined aesthetics and functionality. This experience led him to challenge traditional design conventions, creating innovative projects that not only break from established norms but also transform how we perceive space and objects.

Transforming Reflection: Founding Celo1

Costantino Gucci’s art goes beyond aesthetics; it seeks to evoke deep emotions and provoke reflection on universal themes like beauty, the fragility of life, and humanity’s connection to nature. He believes that art can serve as a powerful catalyst for social and cultural change, and he strives to create works that are both accessible and meaningful to all. With a focus on sustainability and introspection, Gucci incorporates eco-friendly materials to raise awareness about the delicate balance of the natural world. His creations often encourage self-reflection and foster connection with others, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to breathe new life into ancient practices.

Mostra Con Movimento Gallery x Lake Como Design Festival 2023
With Movimento Gallery x Lake Como Design Festival 2023

Four years ago, Gucci co-founded Celo1 with his former classmate Edward Raneri. Based between London and Italy, their studio initially focused on creating mirrors that change appearance throughout the day—shifting from aesthetic pieces in daylight to captivating works of art at night. They use reflective materials like glass and metal to manipulate light, challenging perceptions of reality. As Gucci’s work evolves from design to contemporary art, his journey is fuelled by a desire to express his personal vision in new and impactful ways.

Cosmic Inspirations and the Art of White Holes

Costantino Gucci’s art is a deep exploration of storytelling, channelling his soul into every piece. One of his earliest works, “The Present,” draws inspiration from white holes—cosmic phenomena that expel matter and energy, serving as the opposite of black holes. This concept also informs his artwork “Inevitable Future” and connects to his unique ink techniques, which blend colours to create the illusion of peering into a fascinating void. His use of light-sensitive pigments, some opaque and others reflective, results in three-dimensional effects that demand precision and expertise from a skilled team of craftsmen.

Speccho Unknt with hand and green shades

Gucci’s passion also extends to Impressionism and post-Impressionism, with Monet’s Rouen Cathedral being a key influence. The way Monet captured the sunlight changing the cathedral’s appearance deeply inspired Costantino Gucci, driving his exploration of light and atmosphere. His piece Unknot, which resembles a flat doughnut shape, transforms into a three-dimensional form when illuminated, showcasing his ability to blur the boundaries between illusion and dimension.

What Awaits Beyond the Horizon of Constantine Gucci’s Art?

Looking ahead, Costantino Gucci has several upcoming exhibitions that will continue exploring powerful themes. “Sogni di Luce” (2025) will focus on the interplay of light and colour, transforming spaces into immersive visual experiences. “Suspended Ecosystems” (2025) will collaborate with scientists and environmentalists to raise awareness about the fragility of our ecosystems. “Reflections on Time” (2026) will encourage personal and collective reflections on the concept of time, while “Tradizioni Rinnovate” (2026) will celebrate the modern reinterpretation of traditional craftsmanship. Lastly, “The Colours of Silence” (2027) will delve into the themes of silence and contemplation in contemporary life, using colour and form to inspire calm and introspection.

Mirror Obsidian Pulse Costantino Gucci
Obsidian Pulse exhibited at ITALIAMANIA, Gstaad 2024 – Curated by Fabio Bechelli

Gucci’s work transcends art; it offers experiences that encourage reflection and foster a deeper connection with both ourselves and the world around us.

The Art of Authenticity: Why Costantino Gucci Refuses to Follow Trends

Costantino Gucci stays true to his beliefs, emphasising that his art is not created for sale or profit—it’s about enriching the world and sharing his soul. Reflecting on his experiences with various gallerists, he has seen how easily people are driven by commercialism, which he believes should never be the primary focus of art. He refuses to design simply for trends or profit, reinforcing his commitment to authenticity.

Despite the pressures of the art market, Costantino stays grounded, balancing these challenges with trust, positivity, and respect. As he puts it, “Creations are bought because they’re appreciated, not because they’re necessary. It’s about finding the right audience who shares these values and connects with your art.”

Costantino encourages emerging artists to remain authentic and pursue what brings them fulfilment, as this is the key to achieving success and attracting a loyal, appreciative audience.

Fields of Study
Art

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