ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Emanuele Montibeller on the Evolution of Environmental Art

other · 2026-04-26

Emanuele Montibeller, who co-founded Arte Sella and serves as the creative director of OCA Oasy Contemporary Art and Architecture, reflects on the transformation of Land Art and environmental art over the past four decades. He believes that the original Land Art movement, which gained traction in the 1980s with figures like Richard Long, has concluded due to the evolving environmental crisis and the necessity for scientific collaboration. Montibeller highlights the importance of technology in fostering a deeper understanding and spiritual bond with nature. Contemporary artists, particularly those around 40, often reevaluate their artistic choices and may incorporate synthetic materials. His initiatives, such as OCA in San Marcello Piteglio, prioritize experiential interaction. He references "Nella terra il cielo" by Mariangela Gualtieri and Michele De Lucchi as an example of architecture as poetry. This interview was conducted by Marta Santacatterina for Artribune.

Key facts

  • Emanuele Montibeller is co-founder of Arte Sella and creative director of OCA Oasy Contemporary Art and Architecture.
  • Land Art flourished in the 1980s with artists like Richard Long.
  • Montibeller says the Land Art period has ended due to changed environmental issues and the need for scientific/technological approaches.
  • In the 1980s, ecological problems were addressed through behavioral changes; today humanity is seen as the problem.
  • Technology increases the need for spiritual connection with nature.
  • Artists around 40 were born analog but think digitally.
  • Early Land Artists used natural materials; contemporary artists question intervention justification and impact.
  • OCA is located in San Marcello Piteglio (Pistoia), a WWF oasis, and requires guided visits.
  • The work 'Nella terra il cielo' by Mariangela Gualtieri and Michele De Lucchi is described as a temple of poetry and architecture.
  • Montibeller believes artists do not need deep ecological knowledge; their intuition makes them conduits of nature.
  • Interview by Marta Santacatterina for Artribune.

Entities

Artists

  • Emanuele Montibeller
  • Richard Long
  • Mariangela Gualtieri
  • Michele De Lucchi
  • Marta Santacatterina

Institutions

  • Arte Sella
  • OCA Oasy Contemporary Art and Architecture
  • WWF
  • Artribune

Locations

  • San Marcello Piteglio
  • Pistoia
  • Italy

Sources