Les masques (La vallée) (The Masks (The Valley))

Ernesto Esposito stands as a remarkable figure in both the fashion and art worlds: a pioneer Italian shoes and accessories designer and passionate explorer of the art world.

His career began in the 1970s, where he emerged as a visionary designer, first working at Thierry Mugler by Linea Lidia, and afterwards joining Sergio Rossi, one of the world’s most prestigious shoe manufacturers.

His passion for creativity extended beyond fashion, and it was during this period that he has also moved his first steps as collector in the art world.

The 1980s marked an era of significant collaborations for Ernesto Esposito: he worked closely with Marc Jacobs, contributing to the design of his line of accessories; simultaneously, his relationship with the art world deepened, becoming friend with the charismatic Italian art dealer Lucio Amelio. He was a pivotal figure in contemporary art scene, who brought to Naples simultaneously Joseph Beuys and Andy Warhol for the iconic exhibition "Beuys by Warhol" in April 1980.

Ernesto Esposito embodies a dynamic, multifaceted presence in both the creative and art worlds, much like the works he collects—such as ‘Untitled (wish you were here)’ by Barbara Kruger and ‘Two Men and Telephones (With Animals)’ by John Baldessari’s. These works, known for their sharp commentary and playful engagement with images and text, reflect the collector own polyhedric nature and his ability to navigate different creative spheres with ease.

Thanks to his temperament - lively, curious, and ever-adapting - he excels in both his professional life as a designer and his personal life as art collector. He has cultivated a refined and gentle eye for beauty, becoming himself a bridge between fashion and the avant-garde art scene, shaping the way these industries intersect.

His deep passion for art has not only influenced his own creative endeavors, but has also been publicly acknowledged by many of his artists’ friends. Over the decades, iconic figures such as Andy Warhol, David Bailey, and Helmut Newton invited him to pose for them, making him a muse as well as a collaborator in the artistic process.

This recognition from renowned artists proves the unique energy and charisma Ernesto Esposito brings to the creative world. His relationships with these influential figures are a testament of his ability to inspire and engage those around him.
Ernesto Esposito's lifelong journey as collector has resulted in an extraordinary collection of hundreds of artworks. He shares his passion for art and design with friends and artists, living as a performer in his wonder(art) world, constantly engaging with the creative process and pushing boundaries.

The present lots on sale are a tribute to his tireless exploration. Each piece reflects his creative visionary, a passion that has fueled his career as both a designer and a collector.