#Italy #illycaffè #Art Collection #Trieste #Sol Calero

A Fusion of Art and Coffee: illycaffè's New Collection by Sol Calero

Introduction

In an exciting reveal at the prestigious Frieze New York art fair, illycaffè has introduced its newest illy Art Collection, crafted by Venezuelan artist Sol Calero. Born in Caracas and now residing in Berlin, Calero is celebrated for her immersive installations that tap into the complexities of identity and cultural representation. Her work seamlessly marries vibrant patterns and textiles with modern artistic expressions, challenging conventional aesthetic boundaries.

An Artistic Journey

Sol Calero's artistic journey draws inspiration from her Latin American roots. Known for her unique ability to weave local cultural narratives into her work, she creates spaces that resonate with everyday life. Her installations often transform conventional environments, like beauty salons and travel agencies, into thought-provoking art. By imbuing everyday objects with rich cultural significance, Calero invites viewers to engage deeply with her art.

At the core of this new collection for illycaffè is the message of connectivity. Each piece becomes a storytelling medium that evokes themes related to migration and community, prompting reflection on how individuals navigate cultural spaces. The vibrant colors and bold geometric patterns employed by Calero not only beautify but also serve as a reminder of the diverse identities they represent.

The illy Art Collection: More Than Just Coffee

The illy Art Collection offers a transformative take on the traditional coffee cup. First launched in 1992, this project has allowed over 135 contemporary artists to express their creative visions by turning illy's iconic cups into canvases. The current collection epitomizes this fusion of art and beverage culture, highlighting the intersectionality of daily rituals and artistic appreciation.

Calero’s designs encourage individuals to slow down and savor the moment, transforming the simple act of enjoying coffee into a rich sensory experience. Each designed cup provides a miniature universe of visual storytelling, merging artistry with lifestyle.

Celebrating Diversity in Art

This collaboration amplifies the strength of art in enriching daily experiences. As Cristina Scocchia, illycaffè's CEO, articulates, “Sol Calero brings the richness and complexity of Latin American cultural codes into our daily routines.” The collection doesn't merely aim to beautify but rather sparks dialogue about cultural intersections and shared human experiences.

Calero's vision stands out for its playful yet profound examination of identity; her work often blends irony with moments of beauty, making room for discussions about what constitutes art and who it serves. By transforming coffee cups into platforms for expression, illycaffè champions a more inclusive approach to art, emphasizing its role in fostering connections.

Practical Details and Availability

The illy Art Collection by Sol Calero debuted from May 7 to May 11, 2025, at Frieze New York and will soon be available for purchase online and in select stores. Pricing for the collection is as follows:

• - Set of 4 espresso cups – €94.00
• - Set of 4 cappuccino cups – €114.00
• - Set of 2 espresso cups – €51.00
• - Set of 2 cappuccino cups – €61.00

The Legacy of illycaffè

Founded in 1933, illycaffè remains a testament to the harmonious blend of art and coffee culture. With an unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and artistic expression, illycaffè has established itself not just as a coffee brand, but as a purveyor of beauty and art within everyday life. The brand's consistent effort to intertwine coffee with the cultural narrative elevates the drinking experience into an artful exchange

As Sol Calero aptly puts it, “My work aims to build bridges between people and cultures.” With the new illy Art Collection, illycaffè continues its legacy of fostering connections through art, making every cup an opportunity for discovery, dialogue, and shared experience.