Franz Paludetto, legendary gallerist and founder of Castello di Rivara, dies at 84

Franz Paludetto, the visionary gallerist who converted a medieval castle into a modern art hub, passed away at the age of 84 in Castello di Rivara. He was born in Oderzo in 1938 and initially found himself in Turin by accident. Prior to his career in the art world, Paludetto held various jobs, including bartender, car salesman, and hotel manager. In 1968, he established his first gallery, Franzp, in Turin, where he featured artists such as Marco Gastini and Nanni Cortassa. In 1985, he collaborated with Aldo Mondino to transform Castello di Rivara into a contemporary art center, attracting prominent figures like Maurizio Cattelan and Joseph Beuys. He also operated galleries in Calice Ligure, Nuremberg, Rome, and Turin. Currently, a solo exhibition of Kiril Hadzhiev's work is on display at Castello di Rivara until May 31.