Artissima 2021: Gallerists Report Mixed Sales but Strong International Interest

The 28th edition of Artissima opened in Turin after a digital edition in 2020, returning to in-person format. Gallerists reported strong international attendance and interest, though sales varied. Poggiali Gallery noted the fair is indispensable. Dutch gallery Dürst Britt & Mayhem observed high international presence of critics and curators, exceeding expectations given the crowded fair calendar. Repetto Gallery saw a return to normalcy from their large double stand. Mazzoleni highlighted interest in works including Marinella Senatore's luminous sculptures. Tucci Russo presented a solo show by Richard Long. Raffaella Cortese noted interest but less movement than previous editions, hoping for more desire to mature. Enrico Astuni and Giorgio Persano emphasized the joy of seeing familiar faces. Smaller galleries found easier sales: emerging gallery East Contemporary sold three works in the first hours on its first fair participation. Wonnerth Dejaco, also founded last year, met new and familiar faces but reported no sales yet. Larger galleries also targeted younger collectors with lower-priced works. Silvia Noire stressed the importance of personal contact after two hard years. Atchugarry expanded its price range to attract buyers, including NFTs, and reported multiple sales. The fair is part of Torino Art Week 2021.