Step into Gab’s Gastro Bar, where the aromas of global Inspire Italian with Bali’s carefree spirit, drawing diners into a dynamic, artistically-atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of shared meals. At Gab’s Gastro Bar you’ll find more than just great food, you’ll find a journey. Chef Gabriel believes that sharing meals should be about sharing moments, so he creates customized culinary experiences like the intriguing “Menu Al Buio” or Menu in The Dark.
Now, the vibrant culinary haven at the heart of Berawa Canggu invites guests to discover the other side of its owner and chef, Gabriel Fratini. Known for his mastery in the kitchen, Chef Gabriel steps into the spotlight as an artist with “Friendship Without Borders” a unique painting exhibition set to take place on November 5, 2024, from 5 PM until late.
The Artistic Chef – A Journey from Kitchen to Canvas
Born in 1958 in Pianella, Italy, Gabriel Fratini’s artistic journey began at a young age. Though his school art teacher encouraged his talent, his family’s limited financial means prevented him from attending art school. With a fiery passion for cooking, Gabriel exchanged his brush and canvas for a chef’s hat, catering to the palates of global icons like Michael Jackson and Roger Federe and many more world famous personality.
While cooking took him around the world, Gabriel never abandoned his love for art. Wherever he worked—be it Switzerland, Hong Kong, or Singapore—he always carried his easel and canvas. A stroll through his paintings takes you on a visual journey, from the velvety texture of Venetian canal scenes, the electric energy of Indian marketplaces to the whisper-soft elegance of Japanese cherry blossoms. Gabriel has also explored diverse materials and techniques, making each piece unique.
From Singapore to Tokyo, his art has graced the walls of top-tier institutions. Notably, the Sheraton Towers Singapore handpicked his pieces for their guest rooms, and the National Museum of Art in Tokyo featured his work in a curated international exhibition. His clientele includes celebrities, ministers, doctors, and business leaders, all drawn to the diversity and authenticity of his artistic expressions.
Friendship Without Borders: Art with a Purpose
“Friendship Without Borders” features 35 of Chef Gabriel’s paintings, each priced between IDR 35-60 million. However, the heart of the exhibition lies in its mission, combining art, charity, and community. The proceeds will be used to improve conditions in the remote village of Kalawirandalam in Manado, Indonesia.
During a visit to the village, Gabriel was deeply touched by the kindness and hospitality of its people, despite their limited resources. He noticed that the villagers lacked basic infrastructure, with no market nearby, requiring them to walk two hours to the nearest one. What began as Gabriel’s simple experience evolved into an ambitious quest to build a market and a playground as a space for the children and future generations of Kalawirandalam village.
Art, according to Gabriel, goes beyond individual Creative expression to instill hope, forge bonds, and captivate the human spirit. This exhibition, he hopes, will not only showcase his artistic talent but also create significant impact on the people of Kalawirandalam.
Art, Charity, and Friendship
Charity has always been central to Chef Gabriel’s life. After many of his exhibitions, he has donated proceeds to causes such as UNICEF, RSPA, and elderly care programs in Singapore. Now based in Bali, Gabriel plans to continue this tradition, with the sales from his upcoming Poetry book supporting underprivileged children on the island.
Never forgetting his own humble beginnings, Chef Gabriel emphasizes, “When my time on earth is done, money or material things will not matter. But the love of friendship I give to others will shine and live on forever.”
