Big Art Festival is a gala to add to your social calendar. On July 25th, at the iconic Villa Alpebella in Forte dei Marmi, magic was undeniable. Hosted in the private Tuscan estate of Andrea Bocelli, the Big Art Festival created an extraordinary Gala Stravagante, a blend of refinement, music, and unforgettable emotion.
Elegance in Every Detail at Gala Stravagante.
Guests arrived at golden hour, dressed in flowing gowns, their silhouettes glowing against the rich terracotta of the villa. I wore a deep burgundy one-shoulder gown from Elisabetta Franchi — graceful, minimalist, and dramatic — perfect for a night where fashion and setting played in harmony. Paired it with a Thalie Paris Swanky crystal bag.
The atmosphere was Italian La Dolce Vita, with champagne flowing and soft live music setting the tone for the night ahead.
Dinner Under the Tuscan Sky.
Dinner was served in the covered gardens, surrounded by flickering candlelight, elegant table settings, and a sense of something extraordinary about to unfold. Each course was a tribute to the finest of Italian cuisine — fresh, luxurious, and executed with subtle artistry. The service was flawless.
A Musical Performance to Remember
Then came the moment that lifted the entire evening into legend: Will Smith took the stage with unstoppable energy and magnetic presence, bringing the crowd to life with a set that felt powerful and deeply personal. He was not only a signer, he truly moved everyone, spread love in the crowd, and made us all happy.
And as if that weren’t enough, the evening held a beautiful, unexpected grace note: Matteo Bocelli joined the stage. His voice, rich and tender, cast a romantic spell across the gala room. His performance was not only a nod to his musical heritage but a modern moment of his own, captivating and elegant. He also sang together with Will Smith, and this truly moved everyone, bringing smiles to the cheering crowd. Together, the contrast of Will Smith’s electric charisma and Matteo Bocelli’s refined vocal elegance created something rare: a true fusion of Hollywood and classical Italy. Another artist who was also extraordinary was my fellow Swiss artist Jodok Cello, who played classical music with contemporary hits and DJ Robyyn playing during the evening.
The Spirit of Summer Luxury
This edition of the Big Art Festival was more than just an event. It was an immersive celebration of beauty — of location, art, music, food, and human connection, all set within one of the most stunning private estates in Europe.
With partners like Hublot, Marchesi, Champagne D Rock, Caffe Principe and more.
I left Villa Alpebella with a full heart, unforgettable memories… and a bit of Tuscan moonlight still clinging to the hem of my gown.
Forte dei Marmi, you truly know how to enchant.
Stay tuned for more Big Art Festival Galas, as they always have incredible events, in spectacular locations, with amazing artists and a fantastic high society crowd. Click here to see previous editions that I attended, here and here.
More info on my Instagram here.
As always with love,
Bella
