Download - Blending Newsletter Nov/Dec 2013
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
BREAKING NEWS
COME ON GET HAPPYby Taylor Kilpatrick
At 9pm on a Thursday night, one may not expect to be sitting in a classroom discussing neuroscience, economic statuses and Bali, but such pleasant surprises will undoubtedly arise when you attend an event presented by a film producer. On this particular evening, a wonderfully invaluable event took place, beginning with a screening of the documentary Happy, and ending with intimate discussions about ‘aha’ moments and seeking peace in an increasingly bustling world.
Photographs by Valentina Dolara
Film producer Eiji Han Shimizu
ISSUE 6 - YEAR 3 | PALAZZI / FUA | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
NEWSLETTER
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Besides the incredible film, what made this such an
inspiring evening was the presence of Eiji Han Shimizu,
the producer of the documentary. This is a man who
radiates cool, not because of his material success in
the film industry or even his ability to pull off a scarf,
but because he’s had amazing experiences all over the
world and is doing what he loves. He looks, well, happy.
For those who haven’t seen the film, go see it right
now! Directed by Roko Belic, who’s film Genghis
Blues was nominated for an Academy Award, Happy
encompasses the science behind ‘Positive Psychology’
as well as numerous interviews with individuals across
the globe about what it takes to be happy. Positive
Psychology is a new field of science that studies
happiness and wellbeing (before everyone jumps up
and changes majors, know that this is actually a field
of neuroscience and incorporates years of research on
the brain.) The group of stellar filmmakers spent six
years on the project, resulting in hundreds of hours
of footage. A notable absence from those interviewed
for the film is people whose lives are focused on power,
fame, and money. As often as it’s said in day-to-day life,
this movie is what clarified the fact that money really
can’t buy you happiness. In fact, not a single person in
the movie drove an Aston Martin or wore Gucci flip-
flops and the best part is, they couldn’t care less. Only
when we value compassion, genuine relationships and
a determination to make the world a better place above
all else, can we become truly fulfilled and enlightened.
Now I’m not telling you to drop everything and move
to Southeast Asia, although that’s what Eiji did, but
we all need to shift our focus away from material
consumption and begin to appreciate the hidden beauty
of nature, family and reaching out to those in need. As
Eiji explained after the movie was over, think of your
happiness as a car. Your experiences and emotions are
your car’s fuel, and those who constantly need more in
order to feel content are the 5 MPG Hummers. Eiji told
us to “make your happiness car more energy efficient!”
Rather than saying more, more, more, we need tell
ourselves to appreciate the value of less.
It’s important to remember that there is no single path to
happiness, Eiji emphasized that everyone will have their
own moment of clarity at their own time. Maybe your
happiness revelation is on the brink of becoming reality.
Go out into the world, breathe the fresh air, and find out.
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NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
ART
“This is the place where I love to be, where I feel safer in Florence. I wish it was open round-the-clock!” So student Hannah Clock says speaking of FUA’s School of Fine Arts, located in via San Gallo, a bit off from the main campus, which she tirelessly attends during its open studio times to continue to work on her painting. “Luckily we are closed on the weekends, so you have the opportunity to know the rest of Florence and Italy,” I answer, “Aren’t you here for this, after all?”
I am replying to Hannah from
the point of view of someone like
me, who, 20 years ago, made the
experience of studying abroad, and
therefore knows what it means
to leave one’s home security and
explore the new and unusual in
a foreign country. Through that
experience I have grown up and
I have become what I am now:
permeable to the new, adaptable to
different circumstances and able to
navigate well in the contemporary
world, which is also constantly
being redefined.
Unstable Territories, the latest
exhibition of the Center for
Contemporary Culture Strozzina
in Florence, makes about all this.
It is a committed and demanding
exhibition that takes us to reflect
on what the transitory is today, in
geographical, political, economic
and, ultimately, individual terms.
The latter is perhaps less graspable
in the context of the show: leavingin
the background the reflection of the
individual self, Unstable Territories
is perhaps the least pandering and
”BOUNDARY LINE”: A SPECIAL PROJECT AT THE STROZZINA FOR FUA ART STUDENTSby Lucia Giardino
the most difficult show for its public
and for our students since the
opening of the Strozzina in 2006.
Nevertheless, this year, like
the previous two, the Strozzina
has invited some international
academic institutions in town to
participate in one of the Center’s
educational projects designed for
students of art and art history,
who have been called to confront
with the curatorial theme of the
show. For Unstable Territories, the
mediation project is called Boundary
Lines: students of the classes of
Foundation Sculpture taught by
F_AIR Artist in Residence Larissa
Aharoni, and Contemporary Italian
Art, taught by Lucia Giardino, will
participate. For the presentation to
the public, Mario Ayala, Amanda
Greene, Katerina Gugliotta,
Emily Stumpfig will produce
plastic works, according to their
appropriateness or correspondence
to the guideline of the topic.
Their media will probably leave
the safe confines of traditional
techniques, to be at the service of
the conceptual idea of instability
and indeterminacy which builds
up the exhibition. The critical
analysis of the selected pieces will
be entrusted to Kristine Calderoni
and Shelby Monkres, both students
of Contemporary Italian Art; they
will consolidate the right for the
pieces from their classmates to be
included in the public presentation
at the Strozzina on December 5,
2013. At the opening of the show I
was proud to meet Mario, Kristine
and Michael, some of our students,
to whom I asked which was for
them a representative work among
all the many meaningful pieces.
Mario Ayala answers for the
three of them: “The pieces were all
focusing on the changing nature
of territories, therefore they were
all functional to the exhibition’s
purpose. There was a documentary
Richard MosseThe Enclave, 20136-channel video installationBiennale di Venezia 2013 - Pavilion of IrelandCourtesy the artist and Jack Shainman Gallery, New York
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FOOD & WINE
Zanny Begg & Oliver ResslerThe Right of Passage, 2013Video stillCourtesy the artists and Galleria Artra, Milan
(The Right of Passage) by artists
Zenny Begg and Oliver Ressler
about the status of citizenship,
and the statelessness that develops
around individuals who emigrate
to other countries. This piece is the
work which has touched me at a
more personal level, since I myself
am an immigrant”. I am very proud
to offer the chance to my students
to participate in the project of the
educational department of the
Strozzina. The 5th of December will
be an unforgettable day for them
and for us all, come to support FUA
students at Strozzina.
UNSTABLE TERRITORIESBorders and Identity in Contemporary Art
11 October 2013–19 January 2014Centro di Cultura Contemporanea Strozzina
This month Massimo Bocus, culinary teacher at Apicius,
chose this scrumptious Tuscan recipe, Crespelle con le
castagne, castagne being Italian for chestnuts. This
recipe is perfect for this time of year as it requires
the new extra virgin olive oil, freshly milled chestnut
flour and chestnut flower honey, all fresh amazing
ingredients that taste just like Autumn!
RECIPE OF THE MONTHCHESTNUT CRESPELLEby Elspeth Humm
Photograph by Elspeth Humm
CrespelleAll purpose flour 200g
This seasons fresh chestnut
flour 100g
Whole milk 350g
Whole egg 1
Salt 1 pinch
Evoo - 1 Splash
Fresh thyme 1-2 stalks
Light Bechamel SauceButter 30g
All purpose flour 30g
Milk 500g
Water 500g
Bay leaves 2
Clove 1
Filling and GarnishSheep’s milk ricotta 300g
Chestnut flower honey approx. 2tbsp
Evoo - This seasons fresh extra virgin olive oil approx. 2tbsp
Ingredients
Serves: 4
Time to prepare:
10 minutes plus 30
minutes to rest
Time to cook:
10 minutes
With the change of the season our markets are now brimming with delicious chestnuts, porcini, fennel, squash, truffle and pumpkins to name just a few. This is a great time to get those Autumnal recipes out and get into the kitchen for a play.
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NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
FOODIE GEMS: WHERE TO GET THAT QUIRKY PANINOby Alexa Mellardo Photographs by Alexa Mellar
Along a charming alleyway tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city’s cobblestone, lies a hidden gem. Following the motto, “fresh food and old furniture,” this unique find confidently rocks a swanky split personality.
Amblé doubles as a smart
vintage furniture boutique and a
delectable café, offering some of
the most mouthwatering panini
in Firenze. Amblé’s sandwich
masterpieces are the perfect picnic
basket components to accompany
a refreshing bottle of limoncello,
spicing up an afternoon picnic
Method
One day in advance, drain the ricotta from the excess
liquid by keeping the ricotta basket hanging up or
alternatively hang the ricotta in cheesecloth. This should
be hung in the fridge.
For the crespelle:
Sift both the flours together, then add the milk and the
egg. Mix with a whisk until it has all mixed together to
form a smooth liquid. Season with salt and fresh thyme
then let is rest for 30 minutes.
Heat a non-stick frying pan and brush the surface with
a little oil. Use kitchen paper if you don’t have a brush.
On a medium heat spoon one ladle of mixture into the
hot pan and quickly move the pan so that the mixture
completely covers the bottom. Good crespelle should
be quite thin. Cook on both sides and set apart. Do the
same again until you have used all of the mixture.
For the light bechamel:
Heat milk and water with the bay leaves and the clove.
Make a white roux using the butter and the flour. Pour
in the water and milk mixture, bring to a simmer and
cook on a low heat until the bechamel is ready. The
bechamel should be really delicate and runny.
Stuffing the crespelle:
Spread a thin layer of ricotta onto the surface of the
crespelle and roll to form a cylinder.
Calculate 2 crespelle per person.
Pour some bechamel and evoo onto an oven tray and
place the crespelle on top. Cover each one with a tablespoon
of bechamel avoiding to cover them completely.
Dress again with evoo, some fresh thyme and freshly
ground pepper.
Bake for 5 minutes at 170°C.
Plate the crespelle dressing them with a little chestnut
flower honey and new extra virgin olive oil.
Perfetto!
Buon appetito!
If you are looking for a drink that would go really well
with this dish then look no further than Vino Novello.
Typically meaning ‘Young Wine’ as it is the first of the
seasons. It also means that it should be drank young.
Light and fruity in flavour with a low alcohol content it
acts as the perfect pairing.
As Giorgio Locatelli famously said “What grows
together, goes together.” Take heed.
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FLORENCE MUSEUMSYOU HAVEN’T BEEN TO... YETby Lauren Fromin
Whether visiting for a short period as a tourist or studying in Firenze for a semester, it is inevitable you will eventually wander into one of the many museums sprinkled throughout the city. Does Uffizi Gallery ring a bell? How about Accademia Gallery or Pitti Palace? If you like long lines and crowded viewings, these are the typical museums to visit. However, Firenze offers other museums you may have not even realized existed. Check out this list of offbeat exhibits to explore the next time you get the chance.
TRAVEL
in the Rose Garden. They can also be savored on the
venue’s trendy, plush couches and savvy stools.
When first arriving at Amblé, you fill out a checklist to
create your personalized panino. Offering a plethora
of fresh and healthy sandwich stuffers to choose from,
picking your ingredients is a truly difficult decision.
The shop offers: your selection of bread (white or ‘five
cereals’), fish or meat, and two ‘garnishes’ for 3,50 euro.
Each additional garnish is 0,50 euro.
Amblé has a broad variety of fish and meat, from
salmon and shrimp to porchetta and roasted turkey. The
garnishes will certainly please your palate, including
juicy sundried tomatoes, creamy gorgonzola cheese,
porcini mushrooms, tasty “taggiasche” olives and
many more delights. The homemade mayo (classic, light
or vegan) lavished on the moist bread slices totally adds
the finishing touch to each panino, complementing
the flavors of the combined ingredients. In addition
to personalized panini, Amblé also serves a salad and
carpaccio (raw beef or fish dish with oil and parmesan
cheese) of the day.
AMBLÉPiazzetta dei Del Bene, 7/A
www.amble.it
The fact that Amblé’s very own décor is a chic furniture
store within itself is an incredibly captivating concept.
The chairs and vintage knickknacks showcased on the
café tables have price tags on them. Antique flowery
teacups and plates set up shop next to a wooden box
of tea bags. Flowerless chocolate brownies in addition
to a crystal cake pedestal of freshly baked cookies and
delectable, moist muffins also await for dessert time.
Amblé is incredibly divine; “wow” panini in a wonderful,
enchanting setting! Davvero unico e molto delizioso –
really unique, very delicious!
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NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
Salvatore Ferragamo Museum (Via Tornabuoni, 2) Entrance: € 5,00
Calling all fashion lovers! The Gucci Museum may be a place you have at
the top of your “must visit” list. Did you know Ferragamo has a museum
as well? The family opened the museum to illustrate the impact Ferragamo
had on the international fashion scene as well as shoe design. The museum
exhibits more than 10,000 archives created by the designer himself over
a 40-year span. The building itself is a Medieval structure; it was even the
seat of City Council between 1860-1870 when Florence was the capital of
Italy. After many years of exchanges, Ferragamo purchased the building
in 1938 and it became his workshop as well as headquarters for the brand.
Dante’s House (Via Santa Margherita, 1) Entrance: € 4,00
Scattered throughout the streets it is common to spot the familiar face of the famous poet,
Dante Alighieri, whether sold in store fronts as souvenirs or sculpted out of marble in
statue form around the city. If you want to get to know him on a more personal level,
stop by his home on Santa Margherita. Situated on three floors, based on the most
important stages of his life, you can find Dante’s youth documented on the first floor
all the way through his political and military years as a Florentine citizen. History of his
exile is displayed on the second floor, and the third is a collection of reproductions detailing
Dante’s fortune and iconography.
Museum of Geology and Paleontolaogy (Via La Pira, 4)
Entrance: Combined ticket for all museum sections € 6,00;
reduced ticket € 3,00
The Medici Grand Dukes started it all, the Museum of Geology
and Paleontology is one of the most critical museums of its kind
in Italy. From the evolution of horses to animal and vegetable
fossils, this museum links the past to the present by showcasing exhibits
surrounding the origins of life in the Mediterranean region. It is easy to forget
about the history before the greats of the Renaissance within Florence, but
this museum will take you back to the beginning of life itself.
Diocesan Museum (Piazza Santo Stefano) Free Entrance
Showcasing masterpieces including “St. Julian” by Masolino, “Adoration of the
Magi” by Paolo Uccello and Giotto’s “Madonna”, the Diocesan Museum brings you
works belonging to other churches that could no longer maintain preservation. The
building itself was restored between 1993 and 1996 thanks to contributions from
the Regional Administration of Tuscany and is currently divided into three floors.
Having existed in 1116 and later reconstructed by Ferdinando Tacca internally
during the 17th century, the church was dedicated to Santo Stefano and Santa Cecilia.
Museum of Prehistory (Via Sant’ Egidio, 21)
Entrance: € 3,50; € 2,50 reduced ticket
Taking place from the Pre-stone age to historical times, the Museum of
Prehistory was founded in 1946. The first floor is dedicated to human
culture as well as the environment and houses fossils of humans from
prehistoric times. The second floor depicts prehistory discoveries as
well as Asian and African collections. One of the main attractions
is an original sized reconstruction of African prehistory presented as
photomurals. This museum is a must see for all history buffs.
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Gardens of Love is a FUA course with an in depth study of the classic gardens that make up Italy. With the Boboli gardens under our belt, my class and I got to see the Villa Medicea di Castello garden just recently and despite the weather that day I admired the beauty of the hedges, trees, statues and flowers that collectively formed such a magnificent piece of scenery.
VILLA MEDICEA DI CASTELLOby Alexandra Dunek
Medici Villa of Castello, Florence.Detail of Fountain of the Apennine:
January sculpture (1563-1565) by Bartolomeo Ammannati.
Photographs courtesy of Ulisse Albiati (cyberuly)
The ortaccio, or walled garden, of the Villa di Castello near Florence.
The one part of the garden that
struck me the most was the
fountain of Appenino because
of the way it looked during the
pouring rain. The rain showcased
the statue differently than it
would in sunny weather. I was
captivated by the peace and
serenity that the statue gave off
to its viewers or at least to me.
My instructor once said that all
statues set in the garden hold
a certain meaning. They are
there for a reason. The fountain
of Appenino represented the
mountain source of the rivers
of Florence. Learning a little bit
about the statue itself as well
as the garden allowed me to
appreciate the history of another
country and left me with a great
desire to learn more. However,
because of its lasting impression,
the statue of Appenino will always
remain my favorite.
Find out how to at: www.polomuseale.firenze.it/musei/?m=villacastello
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NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
As a Fashion Merchandising student at FUA, I am fully immersed in the fashion world. I see fashion, study fashion, I think about fashion, I am fashion. I love that on my way to class I get to see all the local Florentine’s dressed as if they’re straight out of Fashion magazines against the picturesque scenery that Florence has to offer.
FUA STUDENT STREET STYLEby Scottie Key
An exciting and unexpected aspect of being a student at
FUA, is how much I enjoy seeing my classmates against
both the traditional and modern Italian scenery. The
student body at FUA can often represent up to 35 different
nations during just one semester. Walking through
Florence, seeing my classmates and how they are dressed,
how they represent themselves and their nationality
through Fashion has been extremely interesting for
me. The eight individuals I chose for this piece are just a
small example of our extremely diverse and fashionable
student body at FUA. I hope you appreciate the diversity
and individuality as much as I do.
Taylor Balding, 19, USA.
Taylor lives and breathes Fashion;
She writes a fabulous fashion blog
called restlessy0uth.blogspot.com,
I highly recommend it!
Victoria Dic, 20, Colombia.
Victoria has a classic casual chic
style always. She’s perfectly
understated with a touch of flare. “I
love wearing black outfits because
it is a powerful color that exudes
arrogance and modesty at the same
time,” she says.
Kenneth Curiel, 21, USA.
In the 6th grade Kenneth went
to school every day dressed as a
greaser from the movie Grease.
“I was given a leather jacket and I
slicked back my hair every single
day,” he said.
Karen Daley, 18
& Paty Muñoz, 18, Mexico.
Karen and Paty have been friends
for 10 years, but they really started
to get close about three years ago.
“We are so different but at the
same time we agree in everything
we do.” – Karen
FASHION
Photographs by Scottie Key
Brittney Austin, 20, USA.
“I am the ULTIMATE
daydreamer! I daydream almost
80% of my day.” – Brittney
Eloise Beaulieu, 20, French Canada.
Eloise is a talented artist and
designer. She tells me she enjoys
spending Sunday mornings with
a cup of coffee and her laptop
watching movie trailers (not
movies, just the trailers).
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With the industry presently booming coming off of the
“big four” fashion weeks debuting designer collections
for Spring and Summer of 2014, it is more interesting
than ever to view the 19th-20th century garments and
envision where designers may have had some of their
most recent inspiration roots. The Costume Gallery
is located inside the Meridiana sector of Florence’s
extraordinary Palazzo Pitti. For those who
don’t know, the Pitti Palace is located in
the Oltrarno and was built during the
Renaissance, roughly around the
year 1458. Lucca Pitti, a Florentine
banker, was the original owner
of the palace until the property
was purchased by the Medici
family in 1549. In present day,
the Pitti Palace is home to a
variety of art galleries, which
are all open to the public.
Upon entrance in the Costume
Gallery, you are greeted by
extravagant pieces from the
1700s. Corsets and crinoline
played an important role in how
ladies dressed, definitely ousting
any opportunity for comfort and
ease in an everyday environment.
It wasn’t until the early 1800s, I
learned, that empire waist, column-
style dresses came into the mix, a
style that is still extremely popular in
the present day. The gallery is set up with
a timeline feel, all of the styles appearing in a
chronological order. Seeming as though you have gone
back in time, there is a jump from the sleeker column
dresses to very structured gowns with a higher
waistline than those of the 1700s. This is the time
period when the A-line shape came into style. The only
difference in these designs from those of the 1700s is
that the corset has been removed and women are free
to bare some skin. Well, their arms and ankles at least.
The late 1800s were a time when women began to work
and needed more freedom to move in their clothing
than ever before. The 1900s was when fashion moguls
begin to emerge as not only designers, but as praised
celebrity figures in society. Two huge names in fashion,
Salvatore Ferragamo and Roberto Cavalli proudly call
Florence home and gained their popularity in the
mid-1900s. Many Ferragamo shoes are on display
in the gallery, as well as my favorite gown in
the exhibit which happened to be a Cavalli
original. By simply turning a corner in the
gallery, guests are blown away by the
Elsa Schiaparelli originals from the
1930s, including some of her famous
hats that were worn by members of
the Medici family. For menswear,
you can see the developments
made in male trends, as well. The
gallery highlights what was worn
by the diplomats and royals of
the 19th-20th century. There is
a significant change from the
over the top costume pieces men
would wear on a daily basis in the
1800s to the basic black, tailored
suit that is still in style to this
day. The change in wardrobe came
in the 1900s when the rulers of the
world wanted to be seen as average
men with visions that could make
history, as opposed to men who had
money and wanted to be seen as the most
powerful rulers of the land. A few weeks
ago in Milan, designers from across the globe
proved that though fashion is extremely innovative, a
majority of their inspiration comes from going back in
time. Cavalli displayed gowns that could easily mimic
some of those from the 1920s room of The Costume
Gallery, all made in beautiful silver metallic fabrics.
Emporio Armani also went back in time with his
collection, displaying a variety of shift dresses that
could easily date back to the early 1800s. Originally
inspired by Roman architecture, the column dress is
CONTEMPORARY INSPIRATION FROM THE PITTI PALACE COSTUME GALLERYby Julie Grassey
Fashion is a world that is constantly evolving, and after a recent trip to the Pitti Palace Costume Gallery on a field trip with my Fashion, Media, and Culture class here at Florence University of the Arts, it is clear that many of the trends displayed at the museum have continued to remain evergreen throughout the ages.
Photographs by Julie Grassey
NEWSLETTER
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NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
The second floor of the Bargello
museum resembles any other
typical Italian museum. The high
ceiling and hard floors echo even
the quietest footsteps. Far in the
corner, two Madonna sculptures
line the walls, listening to every
word being whispered, watching
every hand moving. They hold the
infant Jesus, still too young to
speak. Luca Della Robbia formed
these lost-cast wax sculptures into
life. Their mouths seem to smile
with adoration at all the people
gazing upon the beauty of them
and their son.
“They love us, each one of us!”
“Look at those beautiful children!
And that pregnant woman!”
“She is certainly glowing!”
In late fall, years ago, the breeze
statues. Their seven year old
minds wandered, yearning to
touch the different pieces. Danny,
the troublemaker, walked over
to Donatello’s “David.” He saw
Goliath. He wanted to touch
Goliath. Pulling on the stone
lodged in his head, the Madonnas
noticed.
“He’s going to break it! Donatello’s
masterpiece!”
“There’s nothing we can do, I
cannot watch!”
“The horror!”
Suddenly, the infant Jesus, savior
of humanity, screamed. He cried
and fussed, saving the statue. No
human ever discovered where the
sound came from, but a smirk
remains on that infant’s face until
this day.
MADONNA AND CHILDby Alyx Bennett
thankfully drifted through the
stuffy room. Seven young children
squirmed as their teacher taught
the lessons of the varying David
certainly very Italian in design and is a timeless piece
we will see on runways for centuries to come.
Sicilian-bred Dolce & Gabbana, as usual, stunned
crowds with their gorgeous garments for Spring 2014.
Always styling over-the-top ready-to-wear pieces,
there was a great deal of oversized A-line dresses in
this collection. As mentioned before, the A-line style
was originated in the late 1800s.
The Galleria del costume in Palazzo Pitti changes
the collection displayed every 2 years, or so. Full
admission to the museum, which also grants visitors
access to the beautiful Boboli Gardens, Bardini
Gardens, Porcelain Museum, and Silver Museum, is
15 Euro. The Pitti Palace is a must-see attraction for
any art and fashion lover visiting Florence. Stay tuned
for the upcoming exhibition at the end of November
featuring the women protagonists of fashion design!
Left: Roberto Cavalli, mid-1900’sRight: Pucci Jewelry, Elsa Schiaparelli umbrella
STUDENT VOICE
Illustration by Jessica Lederhos
Left: Abito da cocktail, both manufactured in Italy. Piece on left between 1975-1980, piece on right between 1923-1924.Proving how similar styles repeats itself overtime.
Right: Salvatore Ferragamo shoes.
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STUDENT HEROES by Michael Turner
Narrator: It was the week before midterms and in the city throughout students were studying to let the stress out. All except one, sound asleep in his bed, an assignment due tomorrow lost deep in his head. But lo and behold a miracle unfurls! A cosmic event to help his ideas flow…He sat up in bed as he heard a faint cry. He looked around the apartment but no one he spied…
Michael: “Um, hello? Who is talking?”
Narrator: He rushed to the window and held very still.
And he could hear voices on the ends of the wind!
Michael: “Actually, no I just want to go back to bed. If
you don’t mind?”
Narrator: As he held that position the voices came
clearer! Cries of distress that were getting quite nearer…
Michael: “Look I don’t really want to get involved in
anything…”
Narrator: He grabbed his keys and he donned his coat
then dashed for the door to help those poor folk!
Michael: “No, I’m not. I’m going back to bed.”
Narrator: I said—He grabbed his keys and he donned
his coat…
Michael: “I heard you but I’m not doing it.”
Narrator: Oh yes you are.
Michael: “No I’m not…”
Narrator: Yes, you are.
Michael: “For the last time!--”
(Falls hard and hits the ground)
Narrator: He tripped and he fell and he hit the concrete.
The voices on the wind then echoed along the street…
Michael: “How’d you… do that?”
Narrator: He rose in a hurry and brushed himself
down. If he wanted to avoid more injuries he would STOP
CLOWNING AROUND!!!
Michael: “…. Uhm ok…”
Narrator: Palazzo Vecchio was where he was led with no
one around but the voice in his head.
Michael: “…This isn’t going to be something ridiculous is it?”
Unknown Voice: “One would hope not but we shall see.
The matter that has brought you here is urgent indeed.”
Michael (Cringing): “Oh great… it begins…”
Narrator: He turned around and with a grin realized it
was a statue that had talked to him!
Hercules: “I am Hercules, the hero, the greatest was I.
Born from Father Zeus and sculpted by some dude.”
Cacus: “Cacus I am and my history is mute. As I am
forever bound to this imbeciles… fruit. Carved we were
by the artist Baccio Bandinelli who thought that this
scene was really quite funny...”
Photographs by David Weiss
NEWSLETTER
13
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
Michael: “Why are you rhyming?”
(Not) David: “If you think that’s weird try standing here.
You won’t believe the odd things that come near. But I am
the David, his replacement not true, I’ve held his place
here since a year after 1872.”
Michael: “Really, feel free to stop doing that you’re
trying too hard.”
Hercules and Cacus: “It is not us who must try but
you I’m afraid. For a threat draws nearer and we cannot
escape!”
Michael: “Look I really just want to go back to bed so if
we could wrap this up?”
(Not) David: “Your essay assignment which you have
forsook. It is the key to a conflict which for centuries has
remained overlooked.”
Michael: “… I’m done with this.”
Narrator: Of course I’ll help David, whatever you need.
Why I’ll stay out all night… even if I were to freeze.
Michael: (Looking upward) “I hate you…”
(Not) David: “We appreciate your help but you must act
quick. My counterpart is approaching and he will not
quit!”
Michael: “Counterpart? You mean the original David?”
(Not) David: “Yes, I’m afraid my predecessor has gone
rogue. Political differences hath created this road…”
Michael: “What sort of political differences could you
possibly have?”
Hercules & Cacus: “A view on art and where it belongs.
The original is liberal but the three of us aren’t. The
signs and buildings of our glorious streets are not to be a
canvas for scoundrels to creep!”
Michael: “… That, actually makes sense. The David was a
symbol for the defense of civil liberties embodied in the
Florentine Republic during his time.”
Hercules & Cacus: “He still is believe it or not. People
may have forgotten but he has not.”
(Not) David: “This argument has spiraled far out of
control. He threatens destruction if his ideas are not
sold!”
Michael: “Ok, but I still don’t understand what it is that
I’m supposed to do?”
Narrator: The ground started shaking their time was at
an end. For across the piazza the True David reared his
head…
Michael: Oh come on I don’t even know what I’m
supposed to do yet!
(Not) David: “Convince the True David his ideas are
far-fetched! By using our creator’s memory he may be
stopped yet!”
Michael: “How would lecturing him on Michelangelo
help?! He would probably agree with him!”
Hercules & Cacus: “How dare you suggest that he
would relate! The great artist, Michelangelo, would never
deface!”
Michael: “Look, this is whatever. But you’re talking
about a guy who has painted on more walls and ceilings
than most artists in the Renaissance, and created more
controversial and “vulgar” art than anyone too.”
Narrator: Their time was running out! The deadline was
nigh! As the original David crossed the piazza with a look
in his eyes!
Michael: “That doesn’t even make sense! He’s a statue
how could he have a ‘look’!”
(Not) David: Hmm I heed your words and take them to
heart. However I don’t believe we can afford to lose this
fight.
Michael: “Fine, whatever, I’ve done my part now let me
go back to sleep and leave at once!”
Hercules & Cacus: “Leave? So soon? But why would you
go? Another use we have for you though.”
Michael: “That doesn’t sound good…”
(Not) David: “A meat shield to use to soften the blow; of
my much stronger double whose rage is palpable.”
Michael: “Hey! Writer are you just going to let this
happen?”
Narrator: “Perhaps if you listened and stopped being
distracted the ending would not have to be so tragic. But
I’ll wish you luck and let you know that you do survive.
After all we still have the sequel to write!”
And all through the night the David wailed on his foes,
who walked away with bruises thanks to their courageous
pillow. Catastrophe was avoided and peace restored.
BLENDING
14
It is the only bronze statue situated in one of the most
popular Piazzas in Florence, and although Medusa in Greek
mythology is represented as a monster, Benvenuto Cellini’s
sculpture makes her almost appear beautiful as well as
terrifying. It is an elegant, realistic Renaissance sculpture
that evokes horror, making the detached snake headed
woman the main subject, like it’s a symbol to avert evil.
It is an aged masterpiece that I have the fortune of seeing
everyday as I walk to and from school, or around the city,
one of the few sculptures that always catches my attention.
A DAILY ENCOUNTER WITH MEDUSAby Michael Anderson
Found in the Piazza della Signoria amongst many awe-inspiring Greco-Roman works of art, stands a bronze Perseus beheading the grotesque monster, Medusa. Perseus triumphantly stands over Medusa’s slain body with her hideous head raised high in his hand.
Photograph by David Weiss
Identifiable by their colorful wardrobe and distinct
hairstyle, Gypsies are a common folk living among
local Florentines.
Over time, the term gypsy has garnered a stereotypical
and somewhat negative context, however, the term
has a much different meaning. The roots of the word
itself derive from an ethnic group of people referred to
as Romani. This group of people live primarily within
Europe and the Americas. Depending where you are
in the world, the term Roma is used to describe the
people as well.
The Romani people are historically from India and known
to have dispersed west into Europe nearly 700 years
ago. Initially, the Romani people travelled from place
to place before settling in many different countries. The
Romani people have been able to maintain their unique
culture by passing down traditions and expectations
verbally from one generation to the next. Additionally,
in some countries, “Romani people can be found in
nearly any job. More traditional occupations include
metal-working, music and dance, and fortune-telling,”
(NationalGeographic.com).
Similar to other ethnicities throughout history,
some have migrated to escape injustices against their
people. Therefore, understanding the roots of ethnic
groups is important and should not go unnoticed. We
are lucky to live in a city that accepts ethnicities from
all around the world and we should be proud to call
everyone around us neighbors.
Familiar to the streets of Florence are unique individuals originating from different regions throughout the world. One group in particular holds the title Gypsy.
GYPSIES: MODERN DAY NOMADSby Nguyễn Tuân Anh Vũ (Vu Nguyen) and Lauren Fromin
FACES & PLACES
SPOTLIGHT ON SLD CITY WALKSby Blair Zimelis, Devin Reuben, Alexandra Nasi, Jillian Lovejoy
Do you keep telling yourself to get out and explore Florence
more? Have you actually done it? Well, FUA has an
opportunity for you to explore different parts of the city
that you now know as home, but it will also get you in shape.
As you know, Florence is a place full of so much history and
culture, but one can only see it if they take the time to walk
a little further and explore a little more. So maybe you’ve
seen all of the tourist attractions like Piazza della Signoria,
Ponte Vecchio, il Duomo, San Lorenzo Leather Market and
Santa Croce, but there is so much more beyond the tour
books. Let real Florentines give you a behind the scenes
look at their Firenze.
Florence University of the Arts offers weekly city walks
where students can meet up and be taken around to the city’s
finest attractions. These walks include a monthly excursion
outside Florence into the hills that surround the city.
On November 29th at 9:00am, FUA will be guiding a
special city walk that is directed towards those who want
to get in shape. The Fit Walk goes on a specific path around
Florence that is meant to challenge one’s stamina while
going to new and interesting parts of the city. It can be
difficult for study abroad students to adjust to life abroad
keep up with a regular exercise routine. Going for a walk
can also be a wonderful way for students to get off of their
social networking profiles, away from homesickness and
into their new environment. It is a great way to get out
and see different parts of the city while doing something
healthy for your body.
Meeting points vary for each walk so be sure to check with the
Student Life Office or at www.FUA.it. The other City
Walks are held on November 15 and 22 at 10:00am.
Photograph by David Weiss
takes the class step by step through the
meditating process. First she explains
how one should sit while in the process
of meditating. Posture is very important,
so she informed the class to “pretend you
are being held up by a string” in order
to sit up very straight but not too stiff.
Both feet should be placed on the floor
(not crossing any part of the body) then
you can put your hands on top of your
legs, or whatever feels most comfortable.
People assume that you close your eyes
during meditation, but it actually helps
to just close them halfway or focus on
a point, closing your eyes makes it too
easy to want to fall asleep. Throughout
time there have been studies indicating
the positive impact of meditation, giving
AN ENCOUNTER WITH MINDFULNESSby Casey Brooks
The Student Life Department at FUA has initiated a new activity project in the fall 2013 semester dedicated to mindfulness practices. I never had the chance back home to work on my state of mind so I thought it would be interesting to try. The classes are about an hour long but we are only meditating for approximately 24 minutes, which is the optimal time for meditating.
reasons why one should meditate and
the advantages that meditating brings.
Among the benefits of meditation it has
been scientifically proven to increase
the immune system, boost your self-
confidence, and improves your memory,
to name a few. People who meditate
often have higher test scores and are
able to focus better; on top of that people
who meditate are usually happier and
less stressed. So far the meditation
classes have had a positive impact on my
wellbeing. I look forward to the classes
and know that it will be a time that I
can just truly be still and enjoy being
tranquil and in one place. Check out the
SLD calendar for upcoming Mindfulness
encounters.
As this is a new activity being offered,
the initial encounter had a high turnout
of students wanting to try out this new
endeavor for the first time. The first class
was an informational overview about
the art of mindfulness. Mindfulness can
also be referred to as meditation, which is
really all about paying attention. Paying
attention to our breath, how we are
feeling and most importantly our mind.
Meditating and being still allows one
to relax and just be themselves. Which
people don’t always give themselves
the opportunity to do so, in a world
where communication and work tend to
dominate our lives. Prof Valentina Dolara
runs the encounters, and has a strong
background in meditating herself. She
STUDENT LIFE
www.palazziflorence.comwww.fua.it
BLENDING NEWSLETTER
Supplemento di /
Supplement to Blending Magazine
Reg. Trib. di Firenze n° 5844 del 29 luglio 2011
Anno 3 – Numero 6
novembre/dicembre 2013 /
Year 3 - Issue 6 - November/December 2013
Editore / Publisher
Florence Campus per INGORDA Editore
Via Alfonso La Mamora, 39
50121 Firenze
Sede editoriale /
Editorial Headquarters
Corso Tintori, 21
50121 Firenze
Tel. 055-0332745
Stampato in proprio /
Printed in house
REDAZIONE / MASTHEAD
Direttore Responsabile /
Editor in chief
Matteo Brogi
Caporedattore /
Editorial Director
Grace Joh
Coordinamento Editoriale /
Managing Editor
Federico Cagnucci
Redazione testi / Copy Editor
Lauren Fromin
Progetto grafico / Graphic Design
Federico Cagnucci
Impaginazione / Page Layout
Joel Yoder, Federico Cagnucci
Illustrazioni / Illustrator
Jessica Lederhos
Redazione fotografica / Photo Editors
Joel Yoder, Federico Cagnucci
Blending is a newsletter created
with and for students of Florence
University of the Arts, the academic
member of Palazzi FAIE. The
newsletter collaborates with the
Student Life Department and
Development Office.
For information contact :