Nonetheless there are still artisans whose craft evokes more passion than their credit card limit. They continue to produce for a clientele inoculated against compulsive fashion trends. These individuals have not lost the sense of thinking through one’s hands- of the unity of mind and body expressed in their handicrafts. They maintain their small businesses and bequeath their spirit from one generation to the next.
Fortunately those who appreciate the quality craftsmanship are not extinct. Bringing the interested clientele to the passionate producer is certainly challenging. And yet there are Italians who take this challenge smiling.
For many Italy is a land associated with temperamental, even excessively emotional people. It is rare to see an Italian speaking without energetic hand movements, even when using the telephone. That apparent excess of emotion and physical energy does more than wave through the air. Italy is a country where hands produce flair. The ubiquitous ballcap requires little thought and even less imagination. However to create headwear of distinction and character one needs passion that can be transmitted into artisan skills. Head shapes vary as much as the ideas and sounds they emit.
Covering the human summit, whether with felt or straw is a task perhaps not as daunting as the ascent of the Himalayas. Yet it can only be accomplished with skill and training. Families of hat-makers can still be found along the Appian Way, from Monza to Montappone with traditions of headwear both for night and day.
There are still some exceptional men and women who look for the extraordinary beauty of handcrafted products. I share their interest, hence my passionate journeys to rediscover these sources of beauty and craftsmanship.