Buongiorno Ceramica is sharing the ancient artisan work of ceramics throughout Tuscany this weekend, May 21 and 22, with events open to the public. Montelupo Fiorentino, Impruneta, Borgo San Lorenzo and Sesto Fiorentino are the Tuscan towns of Italian ceramics that are connected to the rich history of the craft. This weekend-long event brings people together through watching master potters and ceramics artists at work, with rich programs of interactive art initiatives.
Ceramic studios, galleries, laboratories and shops open to the public to share the passion, importance and history of ceramics. Each town and artisan participating in Buongiorno Ceramica is hosting individual events. Through the medium of clay, visitors are shown the relationship between craftsmanship, beauty and function.
According to Intoscana, there are a variety of workshops, live performances, instruction, exhibitions, installations, tastings on artisanal ceramic plates, guided tours, workshops and readings that plan to be held, all having to do with clay. This weekend long event will have something to match your learning style and allow an introduction and a personal connection to the art form.
Impruneta is hosting a variety of happenings over the two days, and all of the information can be found on the Buongiorno Ceramica Impruneta Facebook page. Blending the arts of music and clay, a sound installation of terracotta ceramic pieces will be hosted at Fornace Masini Terrecotte at 6 pm on May 21. Following this collaborative experience, a concert will be performed by the musicians of the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino at Antica Fornace Mariani M.I.T.A.L. On May 22, a children’s handbuilding pottery workshop is to be held at 5 pm and 6 pm, to share the history and craft of ceramics with the youth of Tuscany.
Known for its locally-produced fine porcelain, Sesto Fiorentino is hosting a lineup of activities and shows which are listed on the town’s Facebook page. The Ginori Porcelain Museum has multiple planned events in the facility’s garden, and at noon on May 20, the gates of Via Pratese will reopen after eight years for this occasion. Starting at 3 pm, the day of meetings and shows in the garden will start with “The restoration of plaster molds preserved at the Sesto’s Ceramics Archive.” At 3:30 pm, the Ario Cultural Association is presenting a clay lab called “Surprises of the Earth.” At 6 pm, the Big Band of the Scuola di Music di Sesto Fiorentino “Bruno Bartoletti” will play classic swing songs for the ceramics enthusiasts to enjoy.
Montelupo Fiorentino has organized four main events for the two day celebration of ceramics. The list can be found on the town’s Facebook page. One of the free events that Montelupo Fiorentino is hosting on May 22 at 10 am is an urban walking excursion through the village, from the town’s ceramics museum to the Pozzo dei Lavatoi (a landmark well). During this trek, people are able to see outdoor ceramic works and installations. For booking details or to learn more, contact info@museomontelupo.it or call 0571-1590300.
Borgo San Lorenzo is hosting a site specific ceramic festival, Fabrica32. This weekend-long program invites the public to the complex of the Monastery of Santa Caterina on May 21 and 22. Live demonstrations and artwork of master potters will be on display for visitors. Everything from raw clay to artisanal glazed works will fill the heart of the town. Learn more about Fabrica32 on Buongiorno Ceramica’s website.
After slowly making its way back after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and virtual events, Buongiorno Ceramica is packed with in-person and hands-on activities. Stay updated with events and town specific details on Buongiorno Ceramica’s Facebook page. (allie noland)
