Itinerary of Contemporary Art in Langhe and Roero

In the gentle hills of Piedmont, among vineyards swaying in the wind and villages that seem to have come out of a dream, lies an itinerary that celebrates the perfect fusion of contemporary art and nature. Langhe and Roero, already famous for their beautiful villages and wine heritage, also reveal themselves as treasure troves of art, where installations and murals coexist harmoniously with the landscape.

This route will not only delight art lovers but also nourish the soul of anyone who appreciates beauty in all its forms.

A Dive into Contemporary Art: A Journey through the Hills

In this enchanting corner of Piedmont, contemporary art integrates sublimely with nature, creating a path that embraces the traveler’s soul. Every installation, every mural, is an invitation to discover the magic hidden behind every corner, among rows of vines and ancient buildings. The journey we are about to embark on is a hymn to the beauty of a land always rich with new attractions to see.

The Works of David Tremlett

David Tremlett, an English artist-traveler, has found in the Langhe an ideal place to express his artistic vision. Our journey begins in Verduno, at the hospital, where the work “Verduno #1” welcomes visitors with balanced architectural forms and colors, a testament to the deep connection between the artist and this corner of Italy.

Continuing towards La Morra, we encounter the famous Barolo Chapel. Once in ruins, this small church has been revived thanks to the collaboration between Sol LeWitt and Tremlett. Outside, LeWitt’s vibrant colors dance under the sun, while inside, Tremlett’s warm and serene tones invite contemplation.

In Serravalle Langhe, the Oratory of San Michele and the Boeri residence shine with new colors and meanings. Tremlett’s conceptual art merges with ancient Gothic frescoes, creating a dialogue between past and present that enchants the viewer. Finally, we arrive in Coazzolo, where the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel, with its three colored parts, stands out in all its creativity in the Langhe landscape.

The Giant Benches of Chris Bangle

In Monforte d’Alba, nestled in the heart of Langhe, we find one of the most fascinating and playful attractions of this artistic itinerary: the giant benches of the Big Bench Community Project. Conceived by the famous American designer Chris Bangle, these installations allow us to rediscover the world through the eyes of a child.

Bangle brought his creative vision into the natural setting of Langhe. The giant benches, with their bright colors and oversized dimensions, seem to have stepped out of a fairy tale. Each bench is strategically positioned to offer a spectacular view of the surrounding vineyards and hills, transforming a simple moment of relaxation into an experience of wonder.

Sitting here means stopping and contemplating the landscape from a new perspective. The project, born with the aim of promoting tourism and enhancing the local landscape, has grown into a cultural phenomenon. The installations are scattered in various locations in Langhe, Roero, and beyond, creating a network of points of interest that attract visitors from all over the world.

The Open-Air Museum of Camo (MCA)

In the heart of Langhe, the small village of Camo hosts a hidden treasure that captures the imagination of anyone who ventures there: the Open-Air Museum. This innovative exhibition space extends through the streets and squares of the village, perfectly integrating contemporary art with the natural and architectural landscape. It is a place where art is not confined within four walls but lives and breathes in symbiosis with the surrounding environment.

The Open-Air Museum project was conceived by curator Claudio Lorenzoni in 2013, with the aim of transforming Camo into a permanent artist residency. Since then, around 70 artists from various parts of the world have contributed their works, making the village an open-air art gallery. Among them, Andrea Ravo Mattoni stands out, capable of blending classicism with street art and bringing great masterpieces of the past onto the walls of the village houses.

Using the spray painting technique, Ravo reproduces detailed classical frescoes on urban surfaces, like the portrait of Saint Sebastian, creating a bridge between different eras. Located on a turret on Bricco delle Allodole, the work also invites visitors to reflect on the dialogue between past and present.

Strolling through Camo, one can admire other works by artists such as Mr. Fijodor, Fabio Petani, Ale Puro, RefreshInk, and Nice & the Fox. Every corner of the village holds a surprise, with murals and installations emerging unexpectedly, transforming a simple walk into a journey of discovery. The colorful panels and sculptures harmoniously integrate with the urban fabric, always respecting and enhancing the identity of the place. Here, art is not only to be observed but to be lived.

The Sandretto Re Rebaudengo Art Park

In Guarene, at the heart of Roero, lies one of the most precious gems of contemporary art: the Sandretto Re Rebaudengo Art Park. This extraordinary open-air exhibition space is an oasis where sculptures and installations by internationally renowned artists blend seamlessly with the hilly landscape.

The Art Park is part of the Sandretto Re Rebaudengo Foundation, one of the most important and dynamic institutions in the contemporary art scene in Italy. Since its inception, the foundation has promoted and supported emerging art, providing a stage for international talents. The park represents a fundamental step in this journey, a place where artistic vision comes to life in a naturally beautiful setting. Among the most significant works adorning the park are those by Carsten Höller, Stefano Boeri, and Marguerite Humeau.

The Sandretto Re Rebaudengo Art Park is a laboratory of ideas and creativity. Art is a constantly evolving process that thrives on interaction with the public and the environment. Visitors are invited to explore, reflect, and be inspired in a context that stimulates the mind and the senses.

Visiting the Sandretto Re Rebaudengo Art Park is an enriching and transformative experience, an opportunity to rediscover the deep connection between humans and nature through the universal language of art.

The Installations in Roddino and Neviglie

Roddino and Neviglie are two unmissable stops for those wishing to explore the latest frontiers of contemporary art. In Roddino, the mural works of Liam Gillick and Hito Steyerl adorn the village’s new workshop-meeting place, transforming it into a true center of culture and creativity. Liam Gillick uses wall surfaces to explore complex themes such as globalization, politics, and economics, while Hito Steyerl tackles issues related to technology and contemporary society. Their works, through forms and colors, stimulate reflection and debate.

Neviglie hosts the sculpture “The Traveler” by Jean-Marie Appriou. This imposing artwork stands as a warning about climate change, symbolically navigating the hills of Langhe. Made of bronze, the sculpture represents an imaginary ship that seems to sail the green waves of the vineyards, evoking the fragility of the environment and the need to preserve it. Appriou, skilled in transforming traditional materials into contemporary forms, creates a work that is both powerful and poetic, capable of eliciting a profound emotional connection with the audience.

The Art Collection at Casa di Langa

The art collection at Casa di Langa aims to astonish and inspire. The selected works harmonize with the architecture of the structure, highlighting the natural beauty of the Piedmontese landscape without ever overwhelming it.

At the entrance, guests are greeted by the architectural forms and balanced colors of a piece by Bonalumi, which immediately sets the tone for the sophisticated artistic experience that awaits them. Adjacent to this, a work by Binion captures attention with his characteristic grid style.

Descending the stairs to the Fàula Ristorante, a work by Kwade reveals itself from afar. Inside, prominent pieces by Accardi and Christo share the space with the elegance of Pivi’s pearls and the vibrant creativity of Rotella.

Exiting the restaurant through the patio doors, guests can admire “The Designated Place” by Fausto Melotti, a historic piece that recalls the rich artistic heritage of the region. Finally, near the main entrance of the hotel, works by Carlesso and Spagnulo interact and complement each other: Carlesso’s “Flusso” in Carrara marble converses with Spagnulo’s minimalist iron sculpture.

Discovering Langhe with Casa di Langa

Langhe and Roero are not only a cradle of contemporary art but also a land of unforgettable experiences. Casa di Langa offers guests a wide range of activities to enrich their stay. From the Wine Academy, which unveils the secrets of fine local wines, to cooking classes that celebrate Piedmontese gastronomy, to truffle hunting and exciting excursions on Vespa through the vineyards.

For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, Casa di Langa offers trekking, hot air balloon rides, and even golf sessions amidst breathtaking landscapes. Each experience is designed to let you experience the territory in an authentic and sustainable way.

Discover all the activities and let yourself be inspired by the many opportunities this wonderful land has to offer, making your trip to Langhe an unforgettable adventure.