In the bustling heart of Shanghai, against the opulent backdrop of the Fosun Art Foundation, Pomellato celebrated its first-ever retrospective exhibition – Pomellato’s Legacy of Creativity and Craftsmanship, From 1976 to Today. Among the luminaries in attendance, the spotlight shone brightest on Sabina Belli, Pomellato’s trailblazing CEO, who embodies the Maison’s ethos of artistry, resilience, and bold innovation.

Sabina, known for her empowering leadership style, likens herself to an ‘elephantess.’ “I think I have this strength of leading a group and taking them to places,” she says. Drawing parallels between her journey and the vast Serengeti plains, she emphasises the resilience required to steer a global brand like Pomellato. “Every single step has been a privilege,” she shares. “I would have never imagined being where I am today.”

As one of the few women in her position, Sabina is deeply committed to amplifying voices. “You don’t need to be a CEO to speak up. Everyone should embrace the idea of gender balance,” she says, underscoring her admiration for the strength of women worldwide, particularly in regions like the Middle East and China.

Shanghai, with its unique cultural crossroads, presented the ideal stage for Pomellato’s retrospective. “As an Italian brand, our heritage lies in high-quality, handmade craftsmanship rooted in centuries of Italian goldsmithery,” Sabina explains. Yet, it is China’s awakening to its own artistic past that resonates deeply with Pomellato’s DNA. “The intelligence of hands, the ability to transform materials into art – these are traditions both Italy and China have mastered for centuries,” Sabina adds.

The exhibition, curated by Alba Cappellieri, highlighted over 100 iconic jewels from Pomellato’s archives, alongside historic campaigns captured by legendary photographers like Gian Paolo Barbieri and Michel Comte. Chinese artist Chen Man’s contemporary installation and innovative AI-generated portraits by Alberto Maria Colombo and Anna Paladini offered a fresh perspective, bridging Pomellato’s Milanese roots with Shanghai’s dynamic energy.

Sabina views this as a pivotal moment to engage with a new generation of women. “Talking to young Chinese girls, in a society where women are strong, is absolutely the right moment for us,” she shares.

At Pomellato’s core is its fearless creativity. Sabina reflects on the brand’s ground-breaking moments, transforming everyday objects – chains, ropes – into fine jewellery. “Anything can be precious if crafted with mastery,” she says. Another revolutionary milestone, the introduction of the Nudo collection, redefined the solitaire concept by spotlighting bold, colourful stones instead of traditional diamonds. This daring spirit extends to design philosophy. 

“Pomellato creates classics that transcend time,” Sabina notes. “Every piece is contemporary and relevant, designed for the woman who knows her voice matters.”

What sets Pomellato apart, Sabina emphasises, is its steadfast dedication to craftsmanship and women. “We are the only jewellery brand that owns its goldsmiths – 150 master artisans – who handcraft every piece,” she reveals. “This connection to old Italian craftsmanship is our soul.”

Yet, beyond the craftsmanship, Pomellato’s mission is deeply rooted in empowering women. “Our focus isn’t red carpets. I’d rather be the brand that connects with a wider range of women, understanding and hearing them,” Sabina says, reaffirming Pomellato’s commitment to placing women at the centre of its creations.

The Shanghai exhibition launch culminated in an intimate gala dinner that embodied Pomellato’s fusion of tradition and modernity. Guests were serenaded by international pianist Wu Muye’s romantic-era compositions and captivated by a contemporary rock ballet performed by Shanghai Theater Academy dancers. Among the attendees were luminaries from fashion, cinema, and sports, all gathered to honour Pomellato’s legacy.

As Sabina reflects on the evening’s success, she remains grounded yet visionary. “Pomellato’s legacy lies not only in its jewellery but in its ability to connect with women across the world, empowering them to embrace their individuality and strength.”

With leaders like Sabina at the helm, Pomellato’s future shines as brightly as the jewels it creates, driven by creativity, resilience, and the timeless art of craftsmanship.

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