Despite their contrasting backgrounds – Gabriela Puig Soleille, an architect, and Martin Michaelis, an art curator – they founded Soleille Gallery with the idea of uniting architecture, design, and art within a single space. Nestled in the heart of the Balearic Islands, in Ibiza, this new gallery, championing nonconformity, explores both the transformative power of materials and craftsmanship by exhibiting carefully selected works of art and furniture. For Acumen, the duo shares their vision of the gallery of the future. An interview.
Coming from a long line of renowned stained-glass artists, Gabriela Puig Soleille has been immersed in the world of art since childhood, honing her eye from a very young age. Martin Michaelis, for his part, has spent the last two decades applying his expertise in fashion, design, and art, collaborating with numerous contemporary artists along the way.
LET THE SUNSHINE IN
It was during a stroll on the Balearic Islands that Gabriela fell under the spell of an imposing building with immaculate whitewashed walls. She had dreamed for many years of opening her own gallery, inspired by her numerous trips to Mexico, a haven for many artists.
Since the late 1950s, Ibiza has established itself as the ideal place to fulfill one's wish: The island boasts a unique art scene, shaped by its role as an international hub, and its vibrant energy attracts an incredible variety of people from around the world. The island's blend of cultures and natural beauty create an inspiring backdrop for creativity, drawing artists, designers, and visionaries alike. "Trained as an architect, the young woman envisioned this new hotspot as a tribute to the artistic atmosphere reigning in Ibiza.
Last June, for its inaugural exhibition, Soleille Gallery explored the theme of materials. Among the marble enclosures by designer Andréa Mancuso and the luminous hammered copper sculptures by Manuel Bañó, architect and designer Sophie Dries presented a mirror made from sand sourced from Ibiza's beaches. This first exhibition reflects the eclecticism that drives the curatorial approach of these two gallery owners: " Soleille Gallery challenges traditional concepts of space and functionality, much like the colors of the sun. It fosters positive emotions and dialogue, leading to the creation of a timeless and elegant environment that continually evolves with innovative experiences. "
EMOTION IN THE SERVICE OF CURATION
The works presented at Soleille Gallery are not only meant to be admired, they also tell stories. According to Gabriela, evoking strong emotions is the key to merging contemporary art and design in the same space. She adds, “ You have to start by identifying the emotional response you want to create in the piece, then balance the artist's vision with the functional design. Contemporary art often reflects the creative process and the artist's emotional intentions, while design emphasizes functionality and aesthetics. ”
Soleille Gallery aspires to become an inclusive platform highlighting the transformative power of art, design, and architecture. A gallery in tune with the times, without a doubt.
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