At Random: Francesco Balzano
As part of our series on the artists and designers behind Spazio Nobile’s The Random Collection, we asked Balzano about his thoughts on collecting the unique
How does the fact that these pieces are unique in a series impact your work?
The Change Tray is a tribute to the iconic Casa Malaparte in Capri, which was immortalised in Jean-Luc Godard’s Contempt and by master photographer François Halard. This project links my whole childhood, when we would travel to Capri as a family; every summer we would pass by the mythical cliff house of writer and director Curzio Malaparte. It is an artists’ residence now, and a place where many famous artists have stayed.
To me, this house almost embodies the essence of architecture. Part of the roof is a staircase that goes up to the sky. I translated that into a small sculptural item, an homage to the villa that can be displayed everywhere to keep documents or some precious thing.
How do you think design is evolving nowadays, towards the field of contemporary art?
To me, design and art have never been different things: [they’re both] utility, retranscription of feelings, a drawing process, materiality, light and colour.
How are both interacting? Why do we have those two words, fine arts versus visual arts, that have been separated? Do you think they should interact more?
Everything is design and everything is design when there’s emotion.
Is functionality an important consideration in your process?
My work has a timeless perception of functionality, in the minimal and basic aspects. I always think of icons.
How do you perceive your work both as a part of The Random Collection and as part of your overall production?
The Random Collection was the opportunity to talk about a very special place to me, a designer piece of art. This house made me wish I could become a designer.
Francesco Balzano’s Curzio Rosso is part of The Random Collection, celebrating the 10-year anniversary of TL Magazine. Launched at Art Brussels (19-22 April), it is always available at the Spazio Nobile Gallery in Brussels and will be at an upcoming exhibition at the Biennale Interieur in Kortrijk from October 18-22.
Articles you also might like
On Saturday, March 14th, Belgian textile designer Vera Vermeersch will open her studio between 12-20h, offering visitors the opportunity to see her latest work, works-in progress, and have a unique glimpse into this prolific artist’s process and vision.
From February 12-15, NOMAD design fair returns to St. Moritz for its ninth edition, transforming the recently renovated Villa Beaulieu—formerly Klinik Gut—into an intimate showcase for contemporary art, collectible design, and jewellery.
The third edition of ceramics brussels runs from January 21-25, 2026 at Tour & Taxis and features 75 Belgian & international galleries.
Spazio Nobile Studiolo presents a selection of Quentin Vuong’s alchemical Mercure mirrors, in conversation with sculptural wood forms and collectible furniture by Kaspar Hamacher, as part of the Season XXXVI of Spazio Nobile Gallery. The exhibition is on view through January 18th, 2026.