A legacy of ink and paper
- Gianpaolo carries forward a family legacy of silk screen printing
- He works with internationally renowned artists
- The environment is a key consideration in his practice
In 2019, Gianpaolo Fallani took over his father's silk screen printing workshop, Fallani Venezia. Fiorenzo Fallani initially established the atelier in 1968, and worked with artisans from all over the world for almost 50 years. Even though Gianpaolo worked in different sectors of the family business, he eventually followed his father's footsteps and has been working with silk screen printing since 2012. "To increasingly reduce the environmental impact of my activity, I always research new materials," he explains. "I exclusively work with water-based, non-toxic and preferably locally produced inks and papers." Today, Gianpaolo collaborates with international contemporary artists, offering residencies, training courses and hands on experiences that foster an exchange of skills, knowledge and ideas.
Interview
- How did you discover silk screen printing?
- The craft is a real family affair: I have been surrounded by my father's workshop since I was a child. When I was 20 years old, I had to take over the atelier as he was dealing with health issues. He was very proud of the work I had done when he came back.
- When are you satisfied with your work?
- When there are works that are made by me, but in which the artist completely recognises himself. At that point, the piece feels like it has been made with four hands. The deeper the relationship between artist and printer is, the more you can feel it in the final work.
- Could your craft be considered in danger?
- In part, yes. Craftsmanship faces many difficulties in a society increasingly geared towards disposable consumerism, as it loses sight of the values that can lie behind an object made by hand, with care and attention. That is why we need to educate clients about the meaning of beauty and craftsmanship.
- What is a memorable moment in your career?
- All the years I worked with my father are certainly memorable. Every piece of work created remains in itself a very important moment and a profound memory. Today, I would say that an important and emotional day for me was when my son Alberto decided to work in the workshop. I hope he pursues the profession with love and passion.
Gianpaolo Fallani is a master artisan: he began his career in 1987 and he started teaching in 2013
Where
Gianpaolo Fallani
