Project: Dreams 2010-2011
La Cometa
On this very day exactly one month ago, I began teaching as a maestra of two courses in "Italian sartorial tailoring" and millinery to a special group of women, at Lake Como. I named this project “Dreams”. I am experiencing many unbelievable moments with incredible people from all walks of life with difference in thought, nationality, religion, beliefs, mind set and of action. And one incredible person of action is named Mr. Erasmo Figini. Erasmo, together with his brother Innocente, created a community organization called 'La Cometa Formation'.
As of 2009 the school “Oliver Twist”, establish by La Cometa Formation, offers instruction and professional formation to the under privilege, the unemployed, families with social economic difficulties and 250 students between the ages of 14 to 18 years old, recuperating lost scholastic school years, to achieve high artisan skills, by means of using the “intelligence of the hands“. Erasmo and three of his key collaborators, Marco, Franco and Barbara are assisting me in creating the orientation and educational process needed for my class.
The school “Oliver Twist", Lake Como
The school “Oliver Twist” means “adventure with an passion for education”. Oliver Twist was the “star” of Charles Dicken’s famous romance, that after many difficulties, and thanks to a person who took him in and introduced a better life and hope.
....achieving high artisan skills, by means of using the “intelligence of the hands“
This was a project of restoration by the young artisans students of the Oliver Twist School, including fixtures, furniture and decorations in a villa of Liberty Style on Lake Maggiore, Como.
Contrada Artisans
When I first saw these lovely vintage glass jars with brass lids and on their rack, I immediately fell-in-love with them! They are original antique candy jars from Florence and are used today to contain beautifully-colored natural powdered tints, utilize for restoring and painting wood interiors. Just amazing!
Last Thursday evening after my lessons, I had the occasion to see a marvelous collection of antique chairs about to be restored into these outstanding beauties. I personally love collecting unusual chairs myself.
Exhibition "Nobilis", Paris
43 original chairs realized by young artisans of the Oliver Twist School (wood craft and textile design) and in collaboration with Contrada Artisans.
November 18, 2009.
The Comet Formation (center-Mr. Erasmo Figini)
The Cometa was awarded a premium title as best school for artistic ability and quality and for excellence in the educative and formative sector.
Dreams
This is exactly what I have come to experience as a maestra,
Education is an experience...
because teacher and student are learning together.
The "objectives" of my courses in Italian sartorial tailoring and millinery,
are to create experts capable of working in autonomy
supported by specialized technical competencies
required in the industry today,
generating the possibilities for future work prospectives
as a professional choice. And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true
Have a wonderful week
In joy,
Kirsten
9 comments:
This is fantastic. This is a marvelous experience and wonderful adventure for you to share your expertise. Although these skills they are acquiring you do use your mind in unlimited creative ways, in which you do not get from ordinary education. I know in Paris they have a similar school for adults to learn these skills, and I had always wanted to attend but never quite managed,, perhaps someday.
Where do I sign up?
Have a lovely week end.
joanny
What a wonderful post and initiative!
I love the idea and drive behind the 'Oliver Twist School' - what a heartfelt and rewarding journey to embark on. For all parties involved!
I am sure some amazing learnings, friendships, and results will emerge from this.
Best of luck with it all and please do tell us more as it evolves!
Big Summery hugs from Sydney!
xx Charlotta
Your post about "Oliver Twist" gives much support to the fact that many people do indeed strive to help others less fortunate than themselves. It renews our spirits in this downfallen economy...it was inspiring.
And your photos are gorgeous....the "Lavender and Lace" were juxtaposed perfectly! Have a wonderful Sunday, Kirsten.
Sue
What an inspiring post! Teaching can be so inspiring ... and what you are doing ... fantastic! Those are great ages to work with.
So exciting! (and I love lake como!!!)
I can only imagine the joy of what you are experiencing right now. I myself will be teaching millinery course over the Summer and simply can not wait to begin.:-))) Your post is so full of inspiration and beauty and positive energy! Thank you for sharing it with me.
So much creativity and that it is so strongly encouraged!! I wish I could be there to take both your class Kirsten and Mr Figini!
xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
Kirsten I am so proud of all you are accomplishing!
Something else to cheer you up.
Come and join my gorgeous Giveaway from Splenderosa!
xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
Kirsetn, I have stopped to wish you wonderful Sunday full of koy and inspiration!:-)))
Wishing you happy Valentine's Day filled with love and unexpected surprises.:-)
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