Last Post.

This is it, folks. I have just one little week left in this great trip, in this beautiful country. I am very ready to return home, but typing those words still provokes an empty feeling in the pit of my stomach. I don’t want to dwell on it right now…

My last ceramics class, apart from the final, was only atypical in one respect: Raimondo took us on a spontaneous visit to a local jewelry craftsman’s studio. Surprisingly, the studio was practically across the street from my house but I had never been inside before…and that is not because I dislike jewelry. When I saw the beautiful works of art that Stefano Alinari is producing I felt like I had no business being in a shop with prices ranging from the 100’s to 100,000’s (in euros, of course). Some of the pieces were breathtaking; I really enjoy Stefano’s combination of precious gems, pearls, and industrial-looking mechanical pieces.

Here is one of his beautiful rings (and a close-up that makes my fingers appear even more ugly in comparison).

Everything he made was unique, both in its choice of materials and design. These pendants ought to make anyone happy. Looking at them certainly improved the quality of out day.

Since I finished the glazing of my piece, I dedicated the rest of the class period to working on Andrea’s project. The shapes still look the same, just a little more skillfully made at this point.

It is comforting to think that I have sanded my last little geometric shape, but I am sure I will miss it at some point. I am proud of the work I have contributed to Andrea’s project; I believe it has improved the overall quality of our group’s product, and I do not think I (or he) could ask for anything more. I am tempted to take a piece home as a reminder…but I do not think I actually should/will.

When I have a picture of my finished piece—complete with the gold luster glaze—I will post it in an addendum to this post.

Until then, thanks to all for reading. Here are my parting words to you:

Love God. Love people. Pursue what is truly Beautiful.




ADDENDUM: here is a photo of the completely-finished project. I really like how it turned out, though the painted matte design comes through the gold glaze in some places. Still, definitely a souvenir I'll be happy to display!