The Art of the Sicilian Cart and the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop

The Art of the Sicilian Cart and the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop

Discover the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop in Barrafranca, a hub of excellence in painting, restoration, and decoration of Sicilian carts—an enduring symbol of Sicily’s artistic heritage

Discover the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop in Barrafranca, a hub of excellence in painting, restoration, and decoration of Sicilian carts—an enduring symbol of Sicily’s artistic heritage

Text and Photos by Marco Crupi

Hand-painted Sicilian cart outside Roberto Caputo's Art Laboratory in Barrafranca, a center for traditional restoration and decoration in Sicily.

In the heart of Sicily, in the town of Barrafranca, lies a place where art meets tradition: the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop. More than just an art studio, this workshop is a cultural hub dedicated to the preservation, creation, and restoration of traditional Sicilian artworks, with a special focus on the iconic decorative painting of Sicilian carts.

Roberto Caputo: The Artist Behind the Workshop

Roberto Caputo inside his art laboratory in Barrafranca, holding an antique Sicilian cart panel undergoing restoration.

Inside his artistic workshop in Barrafranca, Roberto Caputo works on the restoration of an ancient painted panel from a Sicilian cart.

Born in Barrafranca in 1967, Roberto Caputo displayed a natural talent for art from an early age. By the time he was just 10 years old, he had already begun painting as a self-taught artist, later refining his skills through dedicated study and experimentation. Over the years, his artistic style evolved, incorporating elements of surrealism and realism, yet always staying rooted in Sicilian tradition.

His exceptional talent set him apart in the local art scene, leading him to specialize in the restoration and decoration of traditional Sicilian objects. Through extensive research and practice, Caputo has developed a profound understanding of Sicilian iconography, integrating historical and cultural elements into his works. In addition to painting, he registered the brand “Labart Creation”, merging the art of Sicilian carts with fashion, incorporating hand-painted leather into accessories such as bags and belts.

The Birth of the Artistic Workshop

Hand-painted Sicilian chairs with traditional decorations inside Roberto Caputo’s Art Laboratory, surrounded by artworks and handcrafted objects.

In 2005, encouraged by his wife Giusy, Roberto Caputo opened his own artistic workshop, which quickly became a point of reference for painting and restoration enthusiasts. Here, the artist dedicates himself to a wide range of activities, including oil paintings on canvas, murals, artistic decorations, and, above all, the meticulous restoration of ancient Sicilian carts.

This delicate restoration process breathes new life into pieces of Sicilian history, ensuring that traditions remain alive through art.

Beyond Sicilian carts, the workshop also offers interior and exterior decoration services, creating stunning murals and frescoes that enhance the beauty of both private homes and public spaces.

Masterpieces and Collaborations

A refrigerator decorated with hand-painted Sicilian motifs at Roberto Caputo’s Art Laboratory, showcasing traditional Sicilian art applied to modern objects.

One of the fields in which Roberto Caputo has truly excelled is the restoration of Sicilian carts, a craft he has passionately pursued since 1992. Thanks to his skill and dedication, he has become one of the most highly regarded Sicilian cart painters, playing a key role in preserving an art form that was at risk of being lost.

In 2012, Caputo participated in the “Differenziamoci” exhibition at the Municipal Cloister of Barrafranca, showcasing a hand-painted refrigerator. This project demonstrated his artistic versatility and ability to apply his craft to unconventional surfaces.

One of his most prestigious collaborations came in 2016 when Smeg and Dolce & Gabbana launched an exclusive project featuring hand-painted refrigerators inspired by Sicilian carts. Working alongside other renowned Sicilian artists, Caputo helped create unique pieces that blended traditional folk art with contemporary design.

In addition to his paintings and restorations, Caputo has expanded his artistic vision into the fashion world, crafting a collection of hand-painted leather accessories, including bags and belts, which combine Sicilian craftsmanship with modern style.

Exhibitions and Recognitions

Roberto Caputo’s works are celebrated not only in Sicily but also nationally and internationally. Many of his pieces belong to private collections in Italy and abroad, and his creations can be found in numerous churches and museums. Some of the most notable locations featuring his artwork include:

  • Maria SS. dell’Itria Church (Barrafranca)
  • Borgo Cascino Church (Enna)
  • Villarosa Train Museum
  • Villapriolo Museum of Rural Life
  • Barrafranca War Museum

Beyond religious and decorative paintings, Caputo has restored and painted Sicilian carts now displayed in some of the most important museums dedicated to this historic tradition, including:

  • Museum of Stone (Sampieri)
  • Sicilian Cart Museum (Trecastagni)
  • Museum of Carts and Carriages (Mineo)
  • Piaggio Museum (Pisa)

Throughout his career, Caputo has received numerous awards and accolades. One of the most significant was first place in an esteemed Art Competition, solidifying his reputation as a gifted artist and master restorer.

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The Art of the Sicilian Cart and the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop

The Art of the Sicilian Cart and the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop

Discover the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop in Barrafranca, a hub of excellence in painting, restoration, and decoration of Sicilian carts—an enduring symbol of Sicily’s artistic heritage

Discover the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop in Barrafranca, a hub of excellence in painting, restoration, and decoration of Sicilian carts—an enduring symbol of Sicily’s artistic heritage

Text and Photos by Marco Crupi

Hand-painted Sicilian cart outside Roberto Caputo's Art Laboratory in Barrafranca, a center for traditional restoration and decoration in Sicily.

In the heart of Sicily, in the town of Barrafranca, lies a place where art meets tradition: the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop. More than just an art studio, this workshop is a cultural hub dedicated to the preservation, creation, and restoration of traditional Sicilian artworks, with a special focus on the iconic decorative painting of Sicilian carts.

Roberto Caputo: The Artist Behind the Workshop

Roberto Caputo inside his art laboratory in Barrafranca, holding an antique Sicilian cart panel undergoing restoration.

Inside his artistic workshop in Barrafranca, Roberto Caputo works on the restoration of an ancient painted panel from a Sicilian cart.

Born in Barrafranca in 1967, Roberto Caputo displayed a natural talent for art from an early age. By the time he was just 10 years old, he had already begun painting as a self-taught artist, later refining his skills through dedicated study and experimentation. Over the years, his artistic style evolved, incorporating elements of surrealism and realism, yet always staying rooted in Sicilian tradition.

His exceptional talent set him apart in the local art scene, leading him to specialize in the restoration and decoration of traditional Sicilian objects. Through extensive research and practice, Caputo has developed a profound understanding of Sicilian iconography, integrating historical and cultural elements into his works. In addition to painting, he registered the brand “Labart Creation”, merging the art of Sicilian carts with fashion, incorporating hand-painted leather into accessories such as bags and belts.

The Birth of the Artistic Workshop

Hand-painted Sicilian chairs with traditional decorations inside Roberto Caputo’s Art Laboratory, surrounded by artworks and handcrafted objects.

In 2005, encouraged by his wife Giusy, Roberto Caputo opened his own artistic workshop, which quickly became a point of reference for painting and restoration enthusiasts. Here, the artist dedicates himself to a wide range of activities, including oil paintings on canvas, murals, artistic decorations, and, above all, the meticulous restoration of ancient Sicilian carts.

This delicate restoration process breathes new life into pieces of Sicilian history, ensuring that traditions remain alive through art.

Beyond Sicilian carts, the workshop also offers interior and exterior decoration services, creating stunning murals and frescoes that enhance the beauty of both private homes and public spaces.

Masterpieces and Collaborations

A refrigerator decorated with hand-painted Sicilian motifs at Roberto Caputo’s Art Laboratory, showcasing traditional Sicilian art applied to modern objects.

One of the fields in which Roberto Caputo has truly excelled is the restoration of Sicilian carts, a craft he has passionately pursued since 1992. Thanks to his skill and dedication, he has become one of the most highly regarded Sicilian cart painters, playing a key role in preserving an art form that was at risk of being lost.

In 2012, Caputo participated in the “Differenziamoci” exhibition at the Municipal Cloister of Barrafranca, showcasing a hand-painted refrigerator. This project demonstrated his artistic versatility and ability to apply his craft to unconventional surfaces.

One of his most prestigious collaborations came in 2016 when Smeg and Dolce & Gabbana launched an exclusive project featuring hand-painted refrigerators inspired by Sicilian carts. Working alongside other renowned Sicilian artists, Caputo helped create unique pieces that blended traditional folk art with contemporary design.

In addition to his paintings and restorations, Caputo has expanded his artistic vision into the fashion world, crafting a collection of hand-painted leather accessories, including bags and belts, which combine Sicilian craftsmanship with modern style.

Exhibitions and Recognitions

Roberto Caputo’s works are celebrated not only in Sicily but also nationally and internationally. Many of his pieces belong to private collections in Italy and abroad, and his creations can be found in numerous churches and museums. Some of the most notable locations featuring his artwork include:

  • Maria SS. dell’Itria Church (Barrafranca)
  • Borgo Cascino Church (Enna)
  • Villarosa Train Museum
  • Villapriolo Museum of Rural Life
  • Barrafranca War Museum

Beyond religious and decorative paintings, Caputo has restored and painted Sicilian carts now displayed in some of the most important museums dedicated to this historic tradition, including:

  • Museum of Stone (Sampieri)
  • Sicilian Cart Museum (Trecastagni)
  • Museum of Carts and Carriages (Mineo)
  • Piaggio Museum (Pisa)

Throughout his career, Caputo has received numerous awards and accolades. One of the most significant was first place in an esteemed Art Competition, solidifying his reputation as a gifted artist and master restorer.

Location on the Map

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

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The Art of the Sicilian Cart and the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop

The Art of the Sicilian Cart and the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop

Discover the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop in Barrafranca, a hub of excellence in painting, restoration, and decoration of Sicilian carts—an enduring symbol of Sicily’s artistic heritage

Discover the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop in Barrafranca, a hub of excellence in painting, restoration, and decoration of Sicilian carts—an enduring symbol of Sicily’s artistic heritage

Text and Photos by Marco Crupi

Hand-painted Sicilian cart outside Roberto Caputo's Art Laboratory in Barrafranca, a center for traditional restoration and decoration in Sicily.

In the heart of Sicily, in the town of Barrafranca, lies a place where art meets tradition: the Roberto Caputo Artistic Workshop. More than just an art studio, this workshop is a cultural hub dedicated to the preservation, creation, and restoration of traditional Sicilian artworks, with a special focus on the iconic decorative painting of Sicilian carts.

Roberto Caputo: The Artist Behind the Workshop

Roberto Caputo inside his art laboratory in Barrafranca, holding an antique Sicilian cart panel undergoing restoration.

Inside his artistic workshop in Barrafranca, Roberto Caputo works on the restoration of an ancient painted panel from a Sicilian cart.

Born in Barrafranca in 1967, Roberto Caputo displayed a natural talent for art from an early age. By the time he was just 10 years old, he had already begun painting as a self-taught artist, later refining his skills through dedicated study and experimentation. Over the years, his artistic style evolved, incorporating elements of surrealism and realism, yet always staying rooted in Sicilian tradition.

His exceptional talent set him apart in the local art scene, leading him to specialize in the restoration and decoration of traditional Sicilian objects. Through extensive research and practice, Caputo has developed a profound understanding of Sicilian iconography, integrating historical and cultural elements into his works. In addition to painting, he registered the brand “Labart Creation”, merging the art of Sicilian carts with fashion, incorporating hand-painted leather into accessories such as bags and belts.

The Birth of the Artistic Workshop

Hand-painted Sicilian chairs with traditional decorations inside Roberto Caputo’s Art Laboratory, surrounded by artworks and handcrafted objects.

In 2005, encouraged by his wife Giusy, Roberto Caputo opened his own artistic workshop, which quickly became a point of reference for painting and restoration enthusiasts. Here, the artist dedicates himself to a wide range of activities, including oil paintings on canvas, murals, artistic decorations, and, above all, the meticulous restoration of ancient Sicilian carts.

This delicate restoration process breathes new life into pieces of Sicilian history, ensuring that traditions remain alive through art.

Beyond Sicilian carts, the workshop also offers interior and exterior decoration services, creating stunning murals and frescoes that enhance the beauty of both private homes and public spaces.

Masterpieces and Collaborations

A refrigerator decorated with hand-painted Sicilian motifs at Roberto Caputo’s Art Laboratory, showcasing traditional Sicilian art applied to modern objects.

One of the fields in which Roberto Caputo has truly excelled is the restoration of Sicilian carts, a craft he has passionately pursued since 1992. Thanks to his skill and dedication, he has become one of the most highly regarded Sicilian cart painters, playing a key role in preserving an art form that was at risk of being lost.

In 2012, Caputo participated in the “Differenziamoci” exhibition at the Municipal Cloister of Barrafranca, showcasing a hand-painted refrigerator. This project demonstrated his artistic versatility and ability to apply his craft to unconventional surfaces.

One of his most prestigious collaborations came in 2016 when Smeg and Dolce & Gabbana launched an exclusive project featuring hand-painted refrigerators inspired by Sicilian carts. Working alongside other renowned Sicilian artists, Caputo helped create unique pieces that blended traditional folk art with contemporary design.

In addition to his paintings and restorations, Caputo has expanded his artistic vision into the fashion world, crafting a collection of hand-painted leather accessories, including bags and belts, which combine Sicilian craftsmanship with modern style.

Exhibitions and Recognitions

Roberto Caputo’s works are celebrated not only in Sicily but also nationally and internationally. Many of his pieces belong to private collections in Italy and abroad, and his creations can be found in numerous churches and museums. Some of the most notable locations featuring his artwork include:

  • Maria SS. dell’Itria Church (Barrafranca)
  • Borgo Cascino Church (Enna)
  • Villarosa Train Museum
  • Villapriolo Museum of Rural Life
  • Barrafranca War Museum

Beyond religious and decorative paintings, Caputo has restored and painted Sicilian carts now displayed in some of the most important museums dedicated to this historic tradition, including:

  • Museum of Stone (Sampieri)
  • Sicilian Cart Museum (Trecastagni)
  • Museum of Carts and Carriages (Mineo)
  • Piaggio Museum (Pisa)

Throughout his career, Caputo has received numerous awards and accolades. One of the most significant was first place in an esteemed Art Competition, solidifying his reputation as a gifted artist and master restorer.

Location on the Map

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

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