Fernando Betto

Harnessing energy

• Fernando believes in the energy of uniqueness
• Experimentation is at the centre of his work
• He teaches his craft to others

Born in Padua, Fernando Betto graduated as Maestro d’Arte at the Pietro Selvatico Institute, specialising in metal, marble and wood. He trained in the workshops of several master goldsmiths between Padua and Vicenza, acquiring heritage goldsmithing techniques of the area. His personal vision on goldsmithing and jewellery making began to crystallise. In 2011 he opened Oficinad'arte, his workshop in Padua, followed by a second atelier in Caorle in 2018. At the centre of Fernando's work is experimentation that leads him to create pieces with a special energy, as unique as every human being and every moment in life. Conscientious about the importance of passing on knowledge, over the years Fernando has taught many students and apprentices, enhancing their work with exhibition initiatives.

Interview

©Daniele Pagnutti

©Daniele Pagnutti

How would you describe the jewellery you make?

I would call them good luck charms. Together with gold and silver, I use unconventional, semi-precious stones, opals, rocks, materials such as ebony, plexiglass, various plastics, brass, bronze, glass, mirrors, steel, iron, to achieve kinetic pieces.

Where does your interest in movement come from?

When I was a child, I used to build toys by myself, combining different materials, making them with pieces found anywhere. In making my jewels there is the memory of childhood, an aspect of playful creativity. Growing up, I shifted this inclination into goldsmithing.

What aspect of your work do you love the most?

I love everything about my work. It always puts me completely on the spot, it questions me, pampers and demeans me. It’s an unceasing, loving, stimulating challenge, often extremely hard. Being able to transform a thought into reality, into a work of art, to me is the magic of life.

What does well made mean to you?

For me, well made does not exist, as I never truly settle on any piece being finished. A newly finished object can excite me, but in the following days I will work on it again. This is a constant in my life: few objects satisfy me in the long run.

Fernando Betto is a master artisan: he began his career in 1980 and he started teaching in 2000

Works

©Daniele Pagnutti

©Daniele Pagnutti

©Daniele Pagnutti

©Daniele Pagnutti

©Daniele Pagnutti

Where