If you are looking for a a souvenir of Switzerland, a gift for a friend or colleague, or simply a work of art for your own home, then it's worth taking a look at the work and gallery of local artist Rita Mancesti. This gallery, named Artiswiss is located under the lovely old arcades in the village of Coppet and Rita welcomes both expats and English-speaking tourists interested in acquiring an original painting of the area.
She also accepts orders for specific scenes; whilst incorporating her own personal style, if required she can integrate some of the client’s personal history within the painting. Plus, there is no upfront fee at the time of ordering the painting!
One of the key advantages of Rita's workshop is that you can meet the artist and watch her working on-site. If you are a regular visitor you may even see a painting develop from very start to completion. This usually takes around three weeks.
Rita told Living in Nyon
I like this direct exchange: creating an artwork in front of visitors’ eyes. We share stories, and it then turns to be a living art, in the sense that I can explain how I am working and which ideas inspired me. Often children are the first being attracted by the gallery, and encourage their parents to come inside”.
Photo above - Rita Mancesti - Rita was born in 1970 in Geneva, and has lived in Vaud since 1994.
Future plans for the gallery include representing locally-famous painters, bringing diversity in the interpretation of Swiss scenes particularly the beautiful Leman area.
The opening of
oincides with the launch of her book called “Coquille de Lumière - an interesting 25 years-retrospective covering 450 paintings and some sculptures - in a high quality 110-page book. It can be purchased at the Artiswiss Gallery in Coppet or ordered on the website. An English version will be made available in 2015.
You can find the Artiswiss Mancesti Art Gallery – Grand Rue 28b, Coppet Telephone 079- 216 5599. The gallery is open daily from 09.30-12.30 (except Wed and Sun), or via appointment. Rita speaks English, German, Italian spoken and the gallery accepts credit cards. There are also monthly highlights and updates on Rita's own website