Eight artists have received large chocolate plaques to transform into artworks as part of the second edition of Chokolashow, a unique charity initiative taking place in Monaco this autumn.
The draw ceremony took place on Monday afternoon at the newly renovated Wannenes Art Gallery, where each participant drew a nautical symbol to use as inspiration for their chocolate artworks.
Now, the artists have 10 days to work their magic on the cocoa plaques before their pieces go on display to the Art Gallery from September 25th to October 10th.
From Dermopigmentation to Chocolate Art
Among the eight selected artists is Toni Belfatto, one of the world’s leading figures in dermopigmentation, a medical tattooing technique that helps cancer survivors and patients restore their appearance through art. Speaking to Monaco Life, Belfatto – who’s theme is boating – said that he was looking forward to connecting his medical artistry with chocolate.
“I want to create something that has some connection with my field,” said Belfatto, who has won two International Oscars in Brazil for his work. “This boat is like a metaphor for people that suffer, taking them from one situation to another. It’s like a reward for people.”
Belfatto sees his chocolate creation as a symbolic transformation and healing. He plans to incorporate techniques from his medical practice, such as creating hair-like textures to represent waves and wind effects.
In fact, the Italian artist has cleared his schedule entirely for the project. “I asked all my companies to release me because I want to reach a state of emotional intelligence,” he said. “To do something like this, you need time, you need calm, and I believe I can create something special.”
International scope
The event, organised by the Monaco International Hub Association and chaired by journalist Maria Bologna, has attracted artists from diverse backgrounds. The lineup includes Patrick Bibal, a Paris-born comic artist who moved into colour work in the 1990s, Milan-born Luca Bestetti, the only direct student of metaphysical painter Giorgio De Chirico, and Casablanca-born Ilham El Jadaoui, who incorporates precious stones into her artwork.
Other participants include art therapist Monica Di Rocco, who works with psychiatric patients at Monaco’s hospital, designer Fabienne Henry, who collaborates with marine research institutions, experimental artists Emanuela Vavassori, and internationally exhibited artist Patrizia Salles, winner of the prestigious Gold Key Art Award in the United States.
The initiative will conclude in the Chokolashow Village from October 13th to 14th at the Méridien Beach Plaza, where visitors will be able to view the chocolate artworks alongside stands celebrating chocolate and art with free entrance.
The event’s highlight will be a charity auction on the evening of the 14th, attended by Prince Albert II, with all proceeds from the auction distributed to eight selected charities.
The most popular artwork will be selected by public voting, with visitors encouraged to cast their vote during the exhibition period.
Lastly, internationally renowned artist Marcos Marin has already been selected to choose next year’s theme.
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Main photo of the artists by Monaco Life.