I’m thrilled about an exciting opportunity that has come my way. I have the chance to make use of a wonderful laboratory located in the heart of Trastevere, near the bank of the Tiber River. It is part of a complex called the Ospitale of Santa Francesca Romana, adjacent to the church of Santa Maria in Cappella. This building has a rich history: the church was built in the 11th century, and additional parts were added in the following centuries. Over time, it has served as both a private home and a hospital. Currently, it houses a hostel and a retirement home. The laboratory to which I have access is located in a wing of the building.
This location was once the studio of a renowned engraving master: Guido Strazza.
He was and is a very interesting artist, both engraver and painter, with a great personality and charisma. Elisabetta Diamanti, my master, was his student. Our workspace still contains a lot of his work.
It is an honor for me to work in this historic place. I have two companions, Chiara and Andrea, who joined me in the engraving course at San Giacomo a few years ago.
There is also with us the sculptor Ernesto Porcaro, who has been working in this space long before our arrival. The initial group was joined by an experienced Italian-American artist, John David O’brien.
We hope and expect that our group will continue to grow.
