More than 250 guests turned out for the opening night cocktail reception for Artemest Galleria, the luxury e-tailer’s first ever brick-and-mortar U.S. gallery space, at 518 West 19th Street in New York’s West Chelsea art district. Artist Bradley Theodore and designers Antonino Buzzetta, Michael Ellison, Ellen Hamilton, Jenna Chused, Cami Weinstein, Tara McCauley, Mike Rupp, William Cullum and Owen White of Thomas Jayne and Philip Gorrivan and Kenan Wei of Ingrao were all in attendance. Other notable guests included editors and industry VIPs like Benjamin Reynaert, Dayle Wood, Sabine Rothman, Stephen Treffinger, Helena Madden and Matthias Ernstberger. From Artemest, founder and CEO Marco Credendino and founder and creative director Ippolita Rostagno were on hand to host the celebration.

Born out of the desire to create a permanent space where interior designers, architects, collectors and private clients could explore the many nuances of Italian design and learn the secrets of centuries-old techniques, Artemest Galleria brings old and new worlds together in downtown Manhattan. Presented in a rotating series of museum-quality exhibitions showcasing the works of Italian artisans as curated by prominent artists, designers and tastemakers, contemporary crafts become collectibles.

The opening exhibition, Blow: Murano Through the Eyes of Bradley Theodore, highlights the skills and craftsmanship of Murano glassblowers as curated by the Caribbean-born artist, bringing a pop art approach to glassblowing.

“The opening of Artemest Galleria, our first ever gallery, is for us an important achievement, and it has been great to celebrate this moment with our New York community,” said Credendino. “Artemest Galleria has been thought as a space for experimentation, enjoyment, and surprise, so we look forward to many more celebrations!"