Romaversary | 20 years to celebrate
Twenty years ago, I got on a plane in New York and flew to Rome, beginning an adventure I had no idea would take me where it did. I certainly didn’t imagine that twenty years later, I’d still be here! So, for my Romaversary, here are 20 things of many that have made these years what they are. I’ve tried to condense them because if I were to name all the people who held me over this time, this would be a book not a list!
1. Wedding
I married Mauro in Italy, beginning a story that would make this country my home.
2. Son
Ludovico was born here, and raising a Roman son is one of the most extraordinary and creative experiences of my life.
3. Mentoring
I have the privilege of mentoring young people from all over the world here in Rome thanks to the amazing collaborations of IES, John Cabot University, American University, CEA Capa, Rome University of Fine Arts and Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti.
4. Sun / Sea / Trees
The quality of the sunlight, the Mediterranean sea, the extraordinary umbrella pines throughout Rome, these are things I never tire of!
5. Short travel
The beauty of living in Rome is that taking a high speed train or short flight lands me in the most gorgeous of places. I have loved exploring Venice, Sardegna, Milan, Tuscany, Morocco, Istanbul, Greece, Southern France and more. I look forward to more short trips to Scotland, Tangiers, Copenhagen, Georgia and others very soon!
6. Friends, Here and Far
Without friendship, life would be kind of dull. The bonds of deep friendship have withstood the distance and the time that passes. Meanwhile, new circles in Rome and around Europe keep expanding and changing. I am honored to be accepted and part of Italian communities, though I will forever be “la New Yorchese”.
7. Missing People
Living abroad means missing people and occasions, like big anniversaries, or even funerals. It creates a specific kind of heartache that only the sense of separation creates. I have used these feelings in my artwork, as they are powerful reminders of love.
8. Ancient Layers
I love living in a city where thousands of years of history exist right alongside contemporary life, in a big collage of eras.
9. Art Everywhere
Oh and it’s not just random layers over here! There are gilded domes, and extraordinary reliefs, sculptural accents and master paintings living in any given structure. Italy is home to 60 percent of the world’s art heritage, and it is palpable.
10. Italian Language
I will never forget the first book I read in Italian, nor the joy of being able to understand full speeches, youtubes and even just fast banter at dinner in Roman slang. I’m still working on all the GenZ shorthand from my son’s generation… and my accent may never overcome its American roots. Va bene così.
11. Dr Indice
Meeting Gabriele Indice was truly a life changing experience. His extraordinary understanding of the body and healing created a template for true health that is irreplaceable. I am also thrilled to be in collaboration with him as the designer and publisher of his books.
12. Cultural Shocks
One way to decimate the ego and “be here now” is to change cultures! The flubs and mixups are now running jokes, though when they happen can seem like the end of the world.
13. Markets
My mother and I joke about shopping at “Nieman Markets” – because there are moments when I have happened beautiful design on the street, or in an open market. Then there are the food markets, which are incomparable and one of the daily joys of living.
14. Club
A couple of years ago, we joined the Circolo degli Esteri, and it transformed our experience of the City. How wonderful to have this reprieve from urbanity, tall trees, tennis courts and a giant lawn to relax on, pools to swim in and restaurants.
15. Laudato Si’
Art directing the Laudato Si’ exhibition at Palazzo Braschi in Rome and later in Assisi was one of the highlights of my career, and I’m so thrilled to have collaborated with such amazing professionals.
16. Casa / Studio
I am blessed to have what the Italians call “casa bottega” – I live near where I work, specifically 2 floors apart in the same building. I’ve had several studios since I moved here, as well as several homes. This set up is truly a dream. And P.S. I invite people to book a Studio visit with me.
17. Warmth
It is true that the Italian culture is “solare” (sunny). The warmth and depth of certain people I have had the honor to know has impressed me deeply through the years, and I have taken it to heart to act the same.
18. Bulgari
Working with Bulgari Hotels was an uplifting opportunity to collaborate with an extraordinary Italian brand. Working on the inside of this luxury company taught me about conducting business in the most civilized and elegant manner.
19. Clù
In 2022, I founded a company called Clù, turning my paintings into silk scarves and bringing together art, fashion and Italian silk. I am proud of this moment and the success of this small business.
20. Communities
I’ve become part of many different communities, from artists and creatives to international women, various fellowships and institutions, parents, virtual friends and building neighbors – all combining to a sense of belonging, something that I do not take for granted. For you who are reading this, I thank you for being a part of my life.
Twenty years later, I am still New Yorker at heart. Yet Rome is my home.
