Repetto Gallery leaves London for Lugano after Brexit

Italian gallerist Carlo Repetto has closed his London space and opened a new gallery in Lugano, Switzerland, citing Brexit and the pandemic as key factors. The decision was driven by the loss of EU market access and logistical challenges. Repetto noted that London's art market has already suffered, with many dealers moving to Paris, which is now favored by auction houses like Bonhams and events like Art Basel replacing FIAC. The new 300-square-meter gallery in Lugano will open in June 2022 with a retrospective exhibition featuring artists such as Melotti, Fontana, Calzolari, Pistoletto, Paolini, Sassolino, Piangiamore, Long, Christo, and Ghirri. A solo show is planned for October. Repetto believes physical galleries will regain their pre-pandemic role as cultural meeting places, while he remains cautious about NFTs due to speculation. He aims to integrate into Lugano's cultural scene, collaborating with institutions like LAC, MASI, Museo delle Culture, Collezione Giancarlo e Danna Olgiati, and Fondazione Braglia.