Welcome to the World of Antonio
Antonio is a true embodiment of Castelli's artistic heritage, with a journey that exemplifies the deep connection between a humble village and the enduring pursuit of creative expression.
Antonio's artistic path began at the Art School of Castelli in 1974. During his three years at the school, he fell in love with the tactile nature of ceramics and the mathematical precision it required—a perfect harmony of art and science essential for a budding ceramist.
After his third year, Antonio's pursuit of mastery led him to the workshop of the esteemed Bruno Mercante. At the time, securing a place in a Castelli workshop was a coveted honor, though it often came with humble beginnings. Antonio started by cleaning and preparing materials for other ceramists, earning the privilege of just an hour a day at the potter's wheel. His early learning came without monetary reward—his parents would show their gratitude at the year's end with heartfelt gifts to the workshops that nurtured his growth. This practical foundation paved the way for Antonio's 14-year tenure at a prominent ceramic producer in Castelli, which employed 50 people. There, he honed his craft and became one of the lead ceramists, contributing to the creation of exquisite tableware that graced homes throughout Europe.
Family and Roots
Antonio comes from a family of farmers. Growing up in Castelli during its golden era, his formative years were marked by honest labor and authentic cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere of the village inspired him to attend the renowned Art School of Castelli, a beacon of creativity known across Europe. Though his family had no artistic lineage, Castelli's dynamic culture sparked Antonio's artistic ambition.
Life in Castelli
The vibrancy of Castelli’s life and culture deeply shaped Antonio’s artistic style and vision. He grew up enjoying the simple pleasures of good food and hard work, surrounded by dedicated villagers during the village's most prosperous years. The positive energy that permeates Castelli has been a constant source of inspiration for Antonio, fueling his artistic pursuits.
Art and Creativity
For Antonio, art and creativity are not just passions—they are life itself. Creating art brings him a deep sense of peace and fulfillment. Despite the challenges Castelli has faced following the earthquakes of 2009 and 2016, Antonio takes pride in maintaining his own workshop, where his creativity continues to thrive.
Other Joys and Interests
Beyond his art, Antonio has a deep love for soccer. In response to the housing crisis and dwindling population in Castelli after the earthquakes, he founded a soccer school, providing the village’s remaining children with a space to channel their energy and dreams.
In his free time, Antonio enjoys wandering the mountains with friends, searching for mushrooms, or participating in traditional hunting. The simple joys of dining with family and friends bring contentment to his life.
Musical Tastes
When crafting his art, Antonio prefers to work in silence, finding peace in the quiet of his studio.
Favorite Dish
Antonio’s favorite dish, Maccheroni Alle Pallottine—homemade spaghetti with tiny meatballs in a rich tomato sauce—captures the flavors of his childhood and reflects his deep-rooted connection to Castelli.
Creative Routines
Antonio's creative process is punctuated by a heartwarming tradition: at 3 pm each day, Nonna Anna visits his workshop with fresh espresso and homemade cookies, offering a moment of respite and inspiration during the busy afternoon.
Morning Rituals
Antonio’s mornings are simple and free of specific rituals. He finds comfort in leaving his home and heading to his beloved workshop, where creativity flows naturally.
Inspirations and Influences
The art of the 1700s in Castelli, especially the work of the Grue family, has had a profound influence on Antonio. Their innovative painting techniques, which spread throughout Italy, including Napoli, have left a lasting mark on his creative journey.
Artistic Achievements
Antonio’s artistic journey is marked by numerous projects and collaborations, including producing pieces for the Ministry of Culture in Rome. However, his collaboration with Árgillarte stands out as a unique endeavor, breathing life into the history and art of Castelli, and making him immensely proud.
Future Aspirations
Looking to the future, Antonio is determined to promote Castelli and its distinctive artistic heritage to the fullest extent. He is particularly passionate about his collection for Árgillarte and supporting the nonprofit initiatives dedicated to the village and its people.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
To aspiring artists, Antonio offers simple but powerful advice: work diligently and stay focused on your dreams. Honest labor is a guaranteed path to reward.
Closing Thoughts
Antonio's artistic journey and dedication to his craft are truly inspiring. He invites you to connect with his work, which seamlessly weaves together tradition and innovation, and to experience the rich artistic legacy of Castelli. Through his art, Antonio carries forward the heritage of this remarkable village, ensuring that its history remains vibrant and relevant in the modern world.
Respecting the artist’s privacy, he has chosen not to disclose his last name.
Words and photography by Nadia Whitehurst