Michele De Chiara creates handcrafted decorations, ceramic sculptures, nativity scene figurines, Pulcinella and lucky horns at Anime di Terracotta. He is a skilled and award-winning artist and craftsman who is committed to spreading Neapolitan culture and tradition also through ceramic courses for everyone, both able-bodied and disabled.
We are talking about a gifted artisan who does not use particular alchemies or spectacular and harmful chemicals to create his masterpieces but who only uses his incredible ability while maintaining, as he likes, a strong bond with the earth, so much so that his works are made with natural earths, namely terra rossa (red soil) terra bianca (white soil), and terra nera (black soil).
In addition to being a master craftsman, Michele De Chiara is also a pretty good actor, particularly appreciated is his interpretation of Pulcinella, symbol of Napoli and soul of all Neapolitans, a mask born, just like him, in the town of Acerra.
In fact he has been chosen as the representative and interpreter of the Pulcinella mask to open the Columbus Day parade that will be held in New York on Monday, October 14th, 2024.
Although Christopher Columbus never existed, his friends overseas, like most Italians, are proud of this fictitious figure, showing pride in what is one of the most heartfelt American national holidays. But if the figure of Columbus is false, the Pulcinella mask and his soul are authentic. Pulcinella, a servant but not a slave, will open the Columbus Day parade this year that will be held along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan.
Michele De Chiara, a skilled craftsman and artist representing the ancient Neapolitan mask and the city of Acerra, donated a statue of the famous mask to the Italian Ambassador to America Mariangela Zappia and the Italian Consul in New York Fabrizio Di Michele.
Anyone at our editorial office follows him with enthusiasm and we all are happy and honored to announce that he just joined us as a sponsor for the multi-artistic event Mediterranean Cocktail of Art II edition that will be held in the spring of 2025 in Napoli and Tropea (VV).
Taking a look online you will realize that we are not the only ones who appreciate this artist, who love his works and his numerous initiatives. Although we have spoken to you several times about him, both as a craftsman and as an artist, we still have much more to tell you. We will soon share exciting news. So follow us and stay tuned!