For Donato Chiusano of Sant’Angelo dei Lombardi, creating beautiful presepi (Italian manger scenes) is more than a passion—it is a way to give glory to Christ all year long. I first met Donato last December when I saw one of his beautiful creations on a Facebook group, “Irpinia Terra di Mille Tradizioni.” I was struck…
Category: Artigianato
Preserving Cultural Heritage for All
Tradition flows through Irpinia like the waters of the Ufita or the Ofanto— it is just as much a part of the area’s history as its own natural landscape. For Valentina Taccone and Nunzio Gaeta, preserving that cultural heritage in a way to reach modern audiences has become a passion. Their latest project, Etn.ia, plays…
Say “Buongiorno” to Donatus
A new exhibit featuring the work of Solofra (AV) native Donatus Buongiorno is set to debut this April in New York City. “The Art of Immigration” will be held from April 11 to May 11 at the Rectory Gallery of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, 263 Mulberry Street. The exhibit will feature Buongiorno’s works,…
A Scarf of Solidarity
I have to admit, when it comes to knitting or crocheting, it is something I enjoy doing, but I am notorious for starting projects and taking months to finish them, thanks to a busy schedule. I refused to let this be the case when I got a Facebook message from my friend Giuseppe Silvestri of…
The Art of Tombolo
One of the most striking traditional art forms I saw while in Irpinia was that of “tombolo,” a form of lace making that requires special needles, a skilled eye and a lot of patience. In the town of Santa Paolina, nicknamed “the town of tombolo,” the old tradition is alive and well– in fact, there’s…
Irpinia Stories 