Etesian Gallery – Stillness in Focus

On Menorca, the wind carries more than the scent of rosemary and sea salt. It carries a spirit – grounded, resilient, and deeply serene.

At Etesian Gallery, tucked into the historic heart of Ciutadella, this essence isn’t just a backdrop; it’s the pulse behind everything they do. We sat down with the gallery’s founder, Bettina Calderazzo, to explore how the island – and a life lived across Europe – has shaped a singular vision for art, space, and the quiet power of emotional connection.

How has the island’s spirit and the gallery’s history shaped your vision for Etesian?

Menorca has a certain discretion and resilience to it – it’s earthy, grounded, and humbling in a way. That character has definitely informed Etesian’s direction. It’s not just about aesthetics or trends; it’s about creating a consistent, quiet point of view that feels coherent with the environment. That also extends to the artists we work with. Interestingly, I’ve found that even their personalities – not just their work – tend to reflect this quiet strength. It’s as if the island draws in people who are deeply connected to their own rhythm, rather than chasing external validation.

What do you mainly look for when choosing artists or artworks for the gallery?

It’s an intuitive, very personal process. I have quite a broad visual language – I can fall in love with many different things – but the common thread is an emotional response. I have to feel something. If I don’t, I can’t present the work with integrity. I imagine the pieces in a home, even if it’s a hypothetical home in another country or life. But more than that, it’s about what moves me, intrigues me, what offers some kind of visual comfort or pleasure. I really try not to think about the “buyer” or the market. That tends to cloud the process. I want to share what I genuinely love, not just what I think will sell.

Carrer Castell Rupit, 12, Ciutadella de Menorca.

How did living in London and Paris influence how you work with artists on Menorca?

Both places left deep impressions, in very different ways. Paris taught me the importance of tradition and craft. There, art is integrated into everyday life – everyone sees the exhibitions, not just a certain crowd. That sense of cultural democracy was eye-opening. London, on the other hand, gave me a sense of freedom. It had this vibrant, open energy where independent spaces thrived, often led by younger voices. That looseness, that “let’s try it” spirit, really stuck with me. I think in some way, Etesian is an attempt to bring those two perspectives together — the rigor of Paris and the spontaneity of London – but adapted to Menorca’s unique pace.

In what ways have you seen Menorca inspire the artists during their time here?

It’s remarkable, even in just a few days. Through our residencies or even short visits to install a show, you see a shift. The landscape, the constant presence of nature, the light, the silence – it all leaves a mark. There’s a subtlety to the island that draws things out of people in ways they often don’t expect. I’ve watched artists slow down, open up, change their color palettes, shift their materials. It’s like the island reorients them — not dramatically, but gently and with time.

What feeling or impression do you hope visitors leave with after visiting Etesian?

After a trip to Japan two years ago, I came back with a very clear idea of the feeling I wanted people to have here. It’s hard to describe, but it’s a kind of suspended time – a moment of peace, of sensory balance, where everything is quietly considered. Not flashy, not overstimulating. Just something that leaves you thinking, “What was that?” – in the best possible way. We try to carry that through everything, from the shows to the paper we print on. It’s not about perfection, but about creating a space that feels sincere and intentional.

Do you have a favorite artist right now?

It’s impossible to choose just one – I have so many different visual moods. But lately, every time I see a piece by Danielle McKinney, I get a physical reaction. Her work is deeply moving.

Favorite place to eat in Menorca?

Katu. It might be their mezcal margaritas...

One thing visitors shouldn’t miss on the island?

Punta Nati. It looks like a set from a 60s sci-fi film – and the sunset is otherworldly, if you can find your way there.

Photos by Salva Lopez. For more information about Etesian Gallery, including exhibitions and upcoming residencies, visit etesian.net. You can also follow them on Instagram @etesian.gallery.