Elena Isella's creative work

Gallery Sweet Gallery: Curatorial Program and Contemporary Art about Nature

Gallery Sweet Gallery is an innovative curatorial and exhibition program dedicated to exploring the intricate relationships between nature, landscape, and society through the lens of visual arts. Founded and curated by Elena Isella, the project has gained recognition for its biennial event, Gallery Sweet Gallery OUTDOOR. Held between 2015 and 2023 in the moorlands of Mariano Comense, Italy, this biennial features sculptures and installations crafted from natural or recycled materials, placed within agricultural and wooded settings to foster a direct dialogue between the artwork and the environment. The program's mission extends beyond simple display, delving into critical reflections on contemporary ecological crises and the human impact on biodiversity. A key example is the 2025 project "Mazzn" by artist Simone Scardino, which utilizes an unconventional venue—a former butcher’s shop—to investigate how nature is processed and consumed in modern society. By integrating site-specific works, performances, and educational tours, Gallery Sweet Gallery provides a platform for artists to engage with ecological themes, challenging the perception of nature as a mere resource. Collaborating with local institutions such as the Municipality of Mariano Comense and the Associazione Amici dei Musei, the program bridges the gap between contemporary artistic practices and local territorial identity. Each edition reflects a commitment to cultural research and environmental consciousness, making Gallery Sweet Gallery a vital contributor to the contemporary art landscape in the region.