Artists Are Sharing Their Favorite Books, Films, and Cooking Tips Through an Innovative New Virtual Platform Set Up by Bottega Veneta

Walter Pfeiffer is the first artist to be included in the program.

Walter Pfeiffer, Untitled 008 (2006). Photo courtesy Bottega Veneta.

The Italian luxury brand Bottega Veneta has launched the Bottega Residency, a program on its website and social media channels, in a bid to rally the arts and culture communities—and this week, they’re featuring the legendary Swiss fashion photographer and artist Walter Pfeiffer.

Over the course of the next several days, Pfeiffer will share his inspirations—from his favorite books and films, to pieces of music and pop culture moments—in short, video-style interviews featuring collaged text and imagery.

The experience is akin to flipping through the pages of a glossy magazine in real time, with each clip revealing something essential to the artist’s process or oeuvre, which Pfeiffer hopes will inspire readers and fellow creatives. 

A 1982 portrait of Walter Pfeiffer. Courtesy of Walter Pfeiffer and Art + Commerce.

A 1982 portrait of Walter Pfeiffer. Courtesy of Walter Pfeiffer and Art + Commerce.

The first edition, which was revealed Tuesday, pays homage to Pfeiffer’s favorite author, Guy de Maupassant, and his seminal novel, Bel-Ami.

The novel, published in 1903, tells the tale of a disillusioned young man who cons his way through the upper echelons of society (a la Patricia Highsmith’s The Talented Mr. Ripley) and juxtaposes the harsh realities of life alongside wild, joy-filled adventures.

Every weekend, the Bottega Residency will also host live events, from dance performances to cooking classes led by world famous-chefs. Sunday nights will be reserved for “movie nights in,” and will be hosted by major figures in the film industry. 

Walter Pfeiffer, Untitled (2006). A 1982 portrait of Walter Pfeiffer. Courtesy of Walter Pfeiffer and Art + Commerce.

Walter Pfeiffer, Untitled (2006). Courtesy of Walter Pfeiffer and Art + Commerce.

Ultimately, the program is intended to lend structure to each week in an especially difficult period.

“Creativity and strength lie at the heart of [the brand],” says Bottega’s creative director, Daniel Lee, who also notes that the brand’s “new approach to luxury” now includes providing avenues for immersive escapism.

“In this highly distressing time, we feel a responsibility to celebrate those values and ignite a sense of joy and hope in our community and beyond.”

The programming is available through Bottega’s Instagram, Youtube, Weibo, Line, Kakao, and Spotify channels, as well as through its mini-site on the Bottega platform.


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