Pantelleria: A Volcanic Paradise Between Art and Nature
In an article published on September 23, 2021, by MilK Decoration titled "Pantelleria, Volcanic Paradise," Laura Taccari immerses us in the unique world of this island located between Sicily and Tunisia. Beautifully illustrated with photos by DePasquale+Maffini, the piece tells the story of Margot Guelfi and Massimiliano Panseca, a couple passionate about the island, who transformed an old family home into an artist residency called Parco dei Sesi.
© DePasquale+Maffini
An Island of Inspiration and Reconnection
Pantelleria, known for its rugged and volcanic landscapes, is a place where the power of nature can be felt. It is here that Margot, of Sicilian descent, and Massimiliano, an entrepreneur and son of artist Filippo Panseca, sought refuge to change their lives. Their project: to create a space blending simplicity, art, and a return to the earth. Thus, Parco dei Sesi was born, a mix of guesthouse and artist residency nestled at Punta Fram, offering views of the sea and the Tunisian coast.
The location is significant: the park is adjacent to the archaeological site of the Sesi, remnants of a 5,000-year-old civilization. This historic and mystical setting inspires the property’s design, where ruins and volcanic stones create an atmosphere rich in history and mystery.
A Project Blending Art and Agriculture
At the heart of Parco dei Sesi is artistic creation. From the start, the couple aimed to offer a space where artists from around the world could showcase their work and exchange ideas in this exceptional setting. Exhibitions and events are regularly organized, allowing residents and visitors to soak in Pantelleria’s unique atmosphere.
But art isn’t the couple’s only focus. In their pursuit of a simpler life, they also learned to cultivate their own vegetable garden with the help of local farmers. This return to the land pays homage to Pantelleria’s bounty, where the climate and fertile soil allow for the organic cultivation of zucchini, tomatoes, watermelons, and olives. In harmony with nature, this Mediterranean garden extends the philosophy of the place.
The Spirit of Parco dei Sesi
The architecture of Parco dei Sesi draws inspiration from the dammusi, the traditional stone houses of Pantelleria. The Dammuso Grande is the centerpiece of the project, surrounded by newer constructions built by Massimiliano’s father, artist Filippo Panseca. Panseca, an important figure in biodegradable art, lives and works in a studio across from the house, making the estate a continually evolving creative space.
The style of the place is minimalist, in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature. The chosen tones, between white and beige, blend seamlessly with the island’s rocky landscape. Margot and Massimiliano scoured flea markets and antique shops to carefully furnish their home, combining modernity and tradition.
The MilK Decoration article highlights Pantelleria as a hidden paradise where art, nature, and simplicity come together. Through Parco dei Sesi, Margot Guelfi and Massimiliano Panseca have created a refuge that is both inspiring and peaceful, where the earth and culture intertwine to offer visitors a unique experience, far from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
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