Tag: art
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13th Century Laser Show
The spellbinding inlaid floor of the Cathedral at Monreale is a tremendous example of Arab and Norman architectural and decorative styles. Semi-precious stone and marble pieces create dizzying and spectacular mosaic designs. Imagine a world without video games and computer generated design… this is the 13th century version of a laser show!
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The Youth of Motya (Mozia)
The world-renowned “Youth of Motya” is a mid-5th century BC statue made of Parian marble. It was uncovered on the Island of Motya (or Mozia) in 1979 under a mound of dirt and rubble thought to have been created as a barricade during an ancient siege. It has finally returned to Motya after touring the…
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Ceramics with Spirit
Susanna de Simone created this ceramic plate. She was born in Palermo in 1959, and from the time she was a child, has lived and breathed the art and technique of ceramics (Her father was a ceramist and her most influential mentor.). Her work, presented under the name La Fabbrica della Ceramica, can be seen…
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Inspired by Crochet
This decorative ceramic plate by artist Mirella Pipia depicts a view of Capo Zafferano from Mongerbino, both near Bagheria. Mirella’s mother, who I’ve met a few times in the shop in Bagheria, crochets. I have a feeling that the details on this plate are inspired by some of her needlework designs.
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That’s Dedication
Among all of the summer-fun of today’s Ferragosto celebration, let’s not forget that today is The Assumption, the feast day that celebrates the occasion when the Virgin Mother ascended into Heaven. This Byzantine-style mosaic, which dates between 1146-1151, is from Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio or “The Martorana” church in Palermo. It shows Admiral George of Antioch…
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An Ancient Mask from Siracusa
Ancient mask, Siracusa’s Museo Archeologico Regionale “Paolo Orsi”
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Not Only Flowers at Castelbuono’s Infiorata
Last week in Castelbuono, they celebrated their 7th annual Infiorata di Castelbuono. This photo is from the 2012 addition, the theme of which was arts and music. In Castelbuono, which is in the Madonie Mountains, the artists who make these “carpets” don’t only use petals from carnations and Gerbera daisies, but, different from Noto’s world-famous…
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Don’t Forget Palermo
Non dimenticare Palermo. Don’t forget Palermo.
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Nino Parrucca Ceramic Clock
Ceramic clock by Palermo artist Nino Parrucca on my desk.