Andrea Colapinto and his brother Michele.
1 How did you get your start?
Our father collected Italian contemporary art in the 1980s-90s and he introduced us to the art world. I worked in art galleries while studying art conservation in Florence, then moved to London, completed a PGDip in history of fine and decorative art at the Sotheby’s Institute of Art and worked for galleries dealing with 20th century design. A couple of years ago I put all of this together and started my own gallery on Lillie Road, Fulham, dealing with Modern art and design.
2 What events do you have coming up?
The event that is marking the time for us at the moment is the Decorative Fair, but we would like to have some Modern art exhibitions in the future.
3 What is one great discovery you have made?
That Sigvard Bernadotte designed some amazing desks as well as many wonderful cutlery pieces. I found two rare executive corner desks designed in 1958 by Bernadotte – also the Prince of Sweden –and Acton Bjørn, made in rosewood by Nipu.
BB4-5-0 designed by Sigvard Bernadotte and Acton Bjørn, priced £4200 from 900 Art & Design.
4 What is one item you couldn’t do without?
I couldn’t do without a desk, because the desks I sell are the desks I use. If one day I will sell all the desks in stock, I will be in trouble, and I will just take some holidays.
5 Real ale or espresso martini?
Ice-cold Peroni.
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