Willy RIZZO

Willy Rizzo (1928–2013), a Franco-Italian designer and photographer, began his career as a fashion and war photographer before developing a passion for design. In 1966, his design work was initially a personal endeavor, but his friends quickly recognized his talent and began commissioning pieces from him. Among his first clients were Salvador Dalí and Brigitte Bardot, and Rizzo soon became known as the designer of the Dolce Vita.

His inspirations drew heavily from the works of Mies van der Rohe, Le Corbusier, and Ruhlmann. His style was defined by clean lines, bold geometric forms, and the use of luxurious materials. Uniquely, Rizzo never collaborated with other artists, which made his creations all the more personal.

In 1968, he set up his production workshops outside of Rome and went on to open several boutiques around the world. Ultimately, however, he realized he missed his first love—photography—and decided to return to it.