Naples, a city steeped in 2,500 years of history, is often reduced to clichés and stereotypes. But what if we could see it through the eyes of its contemporary artists, musicians, and poets? Sabato De Sarno, the creative force behind Gucci’s recent artistic ventures, has done just that with his latest project, Napoli Infinita. This isn’t just a book—it’s a love letter to a city that holds both his roots and his heart, inviting readers to explore Naples beyond the postcard images.
De Sarno, a native of Cicciano near Naples, has always been drawn to the arts and literature. His journey in fashion, from Prada to Valentino and now Gucci, has been marked by a deep appreciation for storytelling and cultural expression. Napoli Infinita is a natural extension of this passion, bringing together 35 contemporary Neapolitan artists, each with a unique voice and perspective. But here’s where it gets controversial: De Sarno deliberately steps back as a curator, allowing these artists to speak for themselves. “I didn’t want to be central,” he explains. “This is about Naples, not me.”
The book is a polyphonic celebration of the city, showcasing its layers through photography, poetry, music, and visual art. From the upcycled creations of Due di Picche to the Neapolitan poems of Chiara Ferrante, Napoli Infinita is a testament to the city’s vibrant, ever-evolving identity. De Sarno emphasizes, “Naples is a constant presence, an emotional and cultural territory. It holds you close and lets you go at the same time.”
This project is also a platform for lesser-known artists, giving them a chance to shine. And this is the part most people miss: De Sarno’s approach is one of observation, not judgment. “There is no judgment; I simply observe and welcome what I see,” he says. It’s a refreshing take in a world often quick to label and categorize.
Napoli Infinita is part of the larger J’Adore Napoli 2500 project and was published by Nss edicola and Cratèra. But De Sarno’s exploration of cities through art didn’t start here. As creative director of Gucci, he launched Gucci Prospettive, a series of books that delve into the cultural fabric of cities like Milan and London. Each installment is a collaboration with artists and curators, offering a multifaceted view of these urban landscapes.
For instance, Gucci Prospettive: Ancora Londra documents London’s iconic landmarks and their connections to Gucci’s history, featuring images of Princess Diana, Skepta, and artwork by Tracey Emin and Martin Parr. Similarly, Milano Ancora celebrates Milan’s post-war cultural renaissance through art, literature, and fashion.
De Sarno’s work raises a thought-provoking question: Can fashion truly be a medium for cultural dialogue? His projects suggest it can, but what do you think? Is fashion capable of transcending trends to become a meaningful storyteller? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation as inclusive and diverse as Naples itself.
