NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
NEWSLETTER
ISSUE 6 - YEAR 3 | PALAZZI/FUA | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
Film producer Eiji Han Shimizu
BREAKING NEWS
COME ON GET HAPPY
Photographs by Valentina Dolara
by 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.
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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-
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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.
NEWSLETTER
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
ART
”BOUNDARY LINE”: A SPECIAL PROJECT AT THE STROZZINA FOR FUA ART STUDENTS by Lucia Giardino
“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
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
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
Richard Mosse The Enclave, 2013 6-channel video installation Biennale di Venezia 2013 - Pavilion of Ireland Courtesy the artist and Jack Shainman Gallery, New York
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.
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 3
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(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. Zanny Begg & Oliver Ressler The Right of Passage, 2013 Video still Courtesy the artists and Galleria Artra, Milan
UNSTABLE TERRITORIES Borders and Identity in Contemporary Art 11 October 2013–19 January 2014 Centro di Cultura Contemporanea Strozzina
FOOD & WINE
RECIPE OF THE MONTH CHESTNUT CRESPELLE by Elspeth Humm
Photograph by Elspeth Humm
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. 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!
Ingredients Serves: 4 Time to prepare: 10 minutes plus 30 minutes to rest Time to cook: 10 minutes
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Crespelle All 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 Sauce Butter 30g All purpose flour 30g Milk 500g Water 500g Bay leaves 2 Clove 1
Filling and Garnish Sheep’s milk ricotta 300g Chestnut flower honey approx. 2tbsp Evoo - This seasons fresh extra virgin olive oil approx. 2tbsp
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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.
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!
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.
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.
Stuffing the crespelle: Spread a thin layer of ricotta onto the surface of the
As Giorgio Locatelli famously said “What grows together, goes together.” Take heed.
FOODIE GEMS: WHERE TO GET THAT QUIRKY PANINO by 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 5
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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.
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!
AMBLÉ Piazzetta dei Del Bene, 7/A www.amble.it
TRAVEL
FLORENCE MUSEUMS YOU HAVEN’T BEEN TO... YET by 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. 6
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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.
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. 7
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VILLA MEDICEA DI CASTELLO
by Alexandra Dunek Photographs courtesy of Ulisse Albiati (cyberuly)
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.
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 8
The ortaccio, or walled garden, of the Villa di Castello near Florence.
Medici Villa of Castello, Florence. Detail of Fountain of the Apennine: January sculpture (1563-1565) by Bartolomeo Ammannati.
NEWSLETTER
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FASHION
FUA STUDENT STREET STYLE by Scottie Key
Photographs by Scottie Key
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. 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
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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CONTEMPORARY INSPIRATION FROM THE PITTI PALACE COSTUME GALLERY by Julie Grassey
Photographs by 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. 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, columnstyle 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 10
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
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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’s Right: Pucci Jewelry, Elsa Schiaparelli umbrella
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.
STUDENT VOICE
MADONNA AND CHILD
Illustration by Jessica Lederhos
by Alyx Bennett
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
thankfully drifted through the stuffy room. Seven young children squirmed as their teacher taught the lessons of the varying David
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. 11
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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…
Photographs by David Weiss
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?”
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?”
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.
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...”
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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. 13
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FACES & PLACES
GYPSIES: MODERN DAY NOMADS by Nguyễn Tuấn Anh Vũ (Vu Nguyen) and Lauren Fromin
Familiar to the streets of Florence are unique individuals originating from different regions throughout the world. One group in particular holds the title Gypsy. 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.
A DAILY ENCOUNTER WITH MEDUSA by 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
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.
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STUDENT LIFE
AN ENCOUNTER WITH MINDFULNESS by 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. 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
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
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 selfconfidence, 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.
SPOTLIGHT ON SLD CITY WALKS by 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
Photograph by David Weiss
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.
BLENDING NEWSLETTER
REDAZIONE / MASTHEAD
Supplemento di / Supplement to Blending Magazine
Direttore Responsabile /
Reg. Trib. di Firenze n° 5844 del 29 luglio 2011
Editor in chief
Anno 3 – Numero 6
Matteo Brogi
novembre/dicembre 2013 / Year 3 - Issue 6 - November/December 2013
Caporedattore / Editorial Director
Editore / Publisher
Grace Joh
Florence Campus per INGORDA Editore Via Alfonso La Mamora, 39
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50121 Firenze
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