Paolo Penko meets New York University Students Studying in Florence
On October 26, New York University in Florence, in collaboration with the Osservatorio Mestieri d’Arte, hosted a workshop dedicated to the art of goldsmithing in the Florentine tradition. The workshop highlighted the creations of the 21st century artist and master goldsmith, Paolo Penko.
After a lesson by Irma Schwegler, expert of artisanal couture, New York University’s students in Florence became enraptured by master goldsmith Paolo Penko. In an atmosphere both ironic and fantastical, Penko spoke about his studies, his studio work, and the highlights of his career. After he first fell in love with the craft, Penko studied at the Istituto d'Arte di Porta Romana before opening his studio, where alongside his wife Beatrice he designs and perfects one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry, each inspired by Florence’s Renaissance art.
Penko’s dynamic and fortunate career has brought him accolades, awards and an increasing popularity that has carried his reputation all the way to America and Japan. His creations have graced such celebrities as Madonna and Paris Hilton, and some of his more significant pieces have even made it into the permanent collections of the Bargello Museum and the Museo degli Argenti in Palazzo Pitti.
His distinguishing characteristic is his profound knowledge of the most ancient artisanal goldsmithing techniques, the confidence with which he approaches the history of Renaissance art, and even his great capacity for innovation, best shown in his latest creation, the Videojewel, where the art of goldsmithing and video give life to a new and joyous fusion.
Penko ended the workshop with a short runway show of his choicest creations, worn for the occasion by some decidedly emotional female New York University students.
The next meeting in the Artisans in Fashion circuit at New York Univerity in Florence will feature Professor Giampiero Maracchi, who will speak on eco-sustainability, climate change and the role Italian artisanal culture has in our current global economic situation.
