Italy! The Show...the Workshop

Welcome to Italy: Part 2
It is all out of order chronologically, but for some reason this makes sense to me. I guess taking care of "business" before I rant about Florence. Of course, even "business" for me is an absolute joy and when you work with people like I have come to know at DHG, it is difficult to separate one from the other.

So, grab that nuno felted throw blanket again and a glass of wine and come along with me again....

I say, "Ciao, for now" to Florence and take a short train ride to PRATO.

 I am greeted by Gaia of DHG and we zip through the streets of Prato headed toward my cozy retreat for the next few days....

 Prato (amore!)

 I know I am close to home by this landmark...What's that? Oh, just a fortress!

 

"Here you go! G'nite!"...Umm, really? The utilitarian door and the graffiti are zero indication of what lies behind and I just LOVE the juxtaposition of this door and the magical space.

A secret garden of olive trees and vines and a view of the dome. A stylish retreat to sip coffee and prepare for my day ahead. This is Buonanotte Barbarossa and I will return.



 
Dinner with my new dear friend, Lisbeth at a charming place that was a former stable. I still owe you a drink, Lisbeth!

 Night falls over Prato and I get to settle in here. Between Skype calls and FB updates, not a great deal of sleep was had, but sleep is over rated when in such a wonder place with such wonderful people.

Coffee never tasted so good. Very strong. 

 A fascinating guided tour of the Textile Museum of Prato. I was part of the touring group exhibition "The Climate is Changing" which opened here several years ago. This was the beginning of my connection with the Italian feltmakers and curator of my exhibition "Materia Vitale" Eva Basile.

 

 Back at DHG a handsome (and talented, and...) Italian man, Daniel, was setting up to film a video interview with me. I will, of course, let you know when it is available to view (that is if Daniel uses a magic filter that conceals my lack of sleep. just kidding!)

 A quick change and walk through the square to meet Gaia to attend my opening! I am so grateful for all the work and planning involved in putting it all together....I just had to show up.

 Tah Dah! More of what Daniel and DHG do...

 Opening!!!

 Wonder what we are talking about?!

 ..more handsome Italians :o)

...after opening dinner. I was so in-the-moment and enjoying the company of all those who came to dinner, a post dinner table shot is all I got. Olive oil, foccacia, wine, pasta...what can I say?

Good Morning, Fortress! Today the workshop begins...

 Lunch...catered. With wine and espresso and "Strepidosa" students. What more could I want?!

 Lisbeth was a wonderful translator!

 ...but we all spoke the language of wool.

 my sample assembled and ready to wet felt.

Day one came to a quick close. Time flies when you are having fun!

 

 I was NOT leaving Italy without finding the flat black leather boots I just could not find at home!
Success at Piumi

 Dinner with some of my lovely students.

Wonderful dinner at Mokha

 And a traditional drink to follow, Lemoncello!

After lunch on day #2 we went on a tour of the exhibition which brought me on a little side demo for an interesting 3D element. Marta takes notes!

Contenta!!!

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