The origin
Located in Ortisei, a small village in Val Gardena, nestled in the Dolomites, which is a famous mountain range in the Northern part of Italy, in the heart of the Alps. In this region the tradition of wood carving dates back to the 16th century, when the Trebinger and Vinatzer families along with a certain Johann Demetz started wood carving in Val Gardena. These families and many more made their living as farmers during the summer and by carving in the cold and snowy winter months. Working out of their homes, they first started with smaller carvings of saints, little reliefs, wooden toys and picture frames.
In the 18th century the beautiful wood carvings of Val Gardena were much appreciated and sold all over Europe with the help of travelling merchants.
A new material has been discovered
Mr. Ivo Demetz saw – for the first time – some artistic works cast in fiberglass in London and the large doors of the Liverpool Cathedral made in fiberglass. Back home, he started testing this new medium with his staff. A few years later he decided to make fiberglass statues in his studio. That was revolutionary in Val Gardena, the home of woodcarving, and he had to face harsh criticism at the beginning.
Demetz Art Studio is one of the worldwide leaders manufacturing ecclesiastical art and continuing the old tradition.
The CEO Reto Demetz and his staff are facing the new challenges of globalization and the internet. Communication has become so fast and quick online sales endanger the importance of a direct sales talk. A high-quality product like a Demetz Art Studio’s piece of art needs information and time, it is not made for a quick sale. With modern interpretations as well as the vast collection of traditional depictions of “arte sacra” (religious art) the Demetz Art Studio has gained international fame.