Wood continues to shape Sutrio’s identity Thanks to the “Il Bosco nel Borgo – Il Borgo nel Bosco” (The Forest in the Village – The Village in the Forest) project, three new masterpieces will soon grace the most picturesque corners of the town, celebrating the centuries-old woodworking tradition that made Sutrio world-famous – as demonstrated by the Nativity Scene displayed in St. Peter’s Square in 2022, now preserved near the Town Hall.

The artists and their works

From May 12 to 17, three master artisans – guests of our Albergo Diffuso Borgo Soandri during its 25th anniversary celebrations – transformed wood into art, gifting their creations to the town. These works will enrich Sutrio’s urban landscape, honoring the nativity scene tradition central to the “Sutrio Paese Presepe” (Sutrio Nativity Village) project. For six days, the artists worked in the open air, turning simple logs into masterpieces before the public’s eyes. Using chainsaws and chisels, they created:

• Two panoramic cedar benches by Corrado Clerici and Sisto Lombardo, destined to become privileged resting spots with stunning views

• “Il cavallo e il cocchiere” (“The Horse and the Carriage Driver”) by Tiziano Di Giusto – a majestic (almost life-sized) sculpture crafted from three different logs, now displayed in the former stable at 39 Via Roma, opposite the Presepe di Teno. This piece pays homage to the historic figure of Capot, a Sutrio resident also depicted in the Teno Nativity Scene.

Meet the Artists

Corrado Clerici (Forni di Sopra)

A versatile artist specializing in wood, snow, and ice sculptures, with international awards from Cortina to Canada.

Sisto Lombardo (Biella)

A Sicilian sculptor based in Biella, who shapes wood and ice with unique sensitivity. His works – including famous installations like Livigno’s Ice Bar – can be found across Italy, France, and Switzerland.

Tiziano Di Giusto (Tricesimo)

Creator of the monumental sculpture “The Horse and the Carriage Driver“, begun in 2024. This technical masterpiece combines three different logs and is now exhibited in the former stable at 39 Via Roma in Sutrio.

Tomas Jonatan Franzoi (Argentina)

From May 28 to June 4, the Argentine artist will complete his nativity scene – the final act of this artistic residency – displayed in front of the Albergo Diffuso’s reception at 1 Via R. Linussio in Sutrio.

A European project

This initiative is part of a three-year Artist Residency Program promoted by the Municipality of Sutrio and Paluzza under the PNRR Borghi call “Il Bosco nel Borgo – Il Borgo nel Bosco”, aimed at the cultural and social regeneration of historic villages.