What to expect
Antonio, a sculptor of Italian descent, began his career as a sculpture philosopher in Germany and settled in the Seychelles with his family in 1992. His intricate carvings in coral and wood express his philosophy of the harmony of life.
You will be amazed at what he makes from these natural materials, which come from the Seychelles and are each unique in their own way!
The studio is also known as the Yellow Gallery & Sculpture Studio, which is how the Seychelles Tourism Board lists it. It stands among greenery and huge granite boulders above Baie Lazare, on the road to Anse Gouvernement. According to visitor reports, the wooden figures are displayed in a bright, spacious gallery. They are roughly hewn, often show the female form and mingle with cartoon-like animals and fantasy creatures. The woods used include jackfruit, takamaka and almond.
The gallery also shows paintings, prints and works on paper and fabric by other Seychellois artists. These are not by Antonio himself. He provides the exhibition space and helps with sales.
Getting there
The studio is on the road to Anse Gouvernement in the Baie Lazare district. From the coast road it climbs uphill, and the approach is narrow and in places steep. The café next door, Maria's Rock, is a good landmark.
By car
A hire car or taxi is the easiest way to get right to the door. In Baie Lazare, head towards Anse Gouvernement and follow the road uphill. Parking is listed for the café next door, but there is no reliable information for the studio itself. If you park on the narrow road, keep driveways clear.
By bus
Buses run by the Seychelles Public Transport Corporation connect Baie Lazare with Victoria. From the main road, expect an uphill walk. Routes and departure times change, so check them beforehand with SPTC. You can only pay with a bus card or via the SPTC app, as cash is not accepted on board.
Opening times, admission and payment
Opening times: Monday to Saturday: 10am to 9pm
Closed: Sunday and Tuesday
The following payment methods are accepted:
- American Express
- Diners Club
- MasterCard
- Visa
- Cash
For smaller purchases, and in case of network problems, it is worth having some cash in rupees.
Duration, best time and tips
About 30 to 60 minutes is enough for the studio and gallery. If you plan to eat next door afterwards, set aside half a day for the area. There is no fixed best season, as you will mostly be indoors. In rain, a visit makes a good alternative to the beach.
- Larger sculptures are heavy. Ask about shipping before you buy anything bulky.
- Wood and coral are natural materials. Find out what you are allowed to take home, and ask for confirmation of where the pieces come from. You must not collect coral on the beach yourself.
- The road is unlit in the evening. Drive carefully after dinner at the café.
Nearby
On foot or with a short drive you can reach the beaches of Anse Gouvernement, Anse Soleil, Petite Anse and Baie Lazare beach. You will find more artists in the area at the Michael Adams Studio and the Studio Gallery Baie Lazare. For more about the island, see the Mahé page.
