Handcrafted Italian Stone Decor: Unveiling Emanuel's Artistic Soul

We first saw the handcrafted Italian stone decorcreations of Emanuel in Florence a few years ago. They stood out from all of the rest of the pieces at the artisan show we were attending. They were so elegant, refined, creative and well executed. At the time we weren't able to meet Emanuel, but a few months later we met him in front of his shop in Lucca Italy. We talked for over two hours, learning about his craft, his passion, and his dreams for his company. Since that time we have gotten to know him, been witness to his creativity and have realized that what he is capable of is so much more than what we could have imagined.

His creative brain is serious, focused, and always alight with vision. He is funny and playful as well, never taking himself too seriously. To watch him look at a piece of stone or discuss an idea or a space is like watching magic happen. He sees what the rest of us aren't able to see, or to imagine. Working with Emanuel has been such an honor for us at Artful Italia.

We want to share a little about him with you in our interview and the photos of the incredible pieces he makes for his company Impressive. We are so happy to represent his work and to share him with the rest of the world. Even though he wasn't born in Italy he encompasses all that we admire about Italian craftsmanship and pride in Italy.

We hope you are inspired by his words, and his work. You can see all of it on his artisan page.

1. Are You From Lucca, Italy?

No, I'm not from Lucca. I was born in Albania and arrived in Italy at the age of sixteen. After working in other regions, I arrived in Tuscany, in Lucca: I immediately liked the city and stayed because I met the woman who became my wife.

2. When Did You Start Working With Stone?

I started working about three years ago. After leaving my previous job, I decided to devote myself to my passion, helped by two artisans with decades of experience who follow and

support my journey.

3. Have You Always Been Creative, Even As A Child?

As a child, I loved to draw; it was one of my passions.

4. What Do You Like Most About Working With Stone?

The result obtained when nature and man collaborate. Respect for the material, for its forms, the dialogue that is created between the material and the designer allows me to create works that are not just furnishings, but unique pieces.

5. Your Work Is Unique and Elegant. Where Do You Find the Inspiration For Your Handcrafted Italian Stone Decor Creations?

I find inspiration mainly by observing nature without conforming to any pre-established model, but always seeking new paths. Very often, it is the characteristics of the material that

suggest the design path to me.

6. Which Type of Stone Do You Prefer To Work With?

The stone I prefer to work with is onyx because of its characteristics: its transparency, its veins, and because it lends itself to being used for countless creations.

7. Which Piece Makes You the Proudest?

It is difficult for me to rank my best pieces. I always say that the most beautiful one is the last one I created.

8. Do You Have Other Passions Outside Of Your Stone Work?

I love both ancient and contemporary art, I like antiques and design.

9. What Dreams Do You Have For Impressive?

I would like Impressive to collaborate with galleries at an international level, for the quality of our work and the passion with which we create each piece to be recognized.

10. What Do You Like To Do When You Are Not Working?

I like visiting museums, art galleries, shows and historic cities.

11. What Is Your Favorite Part of Italy and Why?

I love Tuscany for its cities of art, its wealth of medieval artifacts (since I am particularly fascinated by the Middle Ages), its small villages where life is still on a human scale, and the colors of the

land.

12. What Is Your Favorite Food?

I like simple cuisine, nothing too elaborate. I like to taste the ingredients, a nice tomato bruschetta, but also a good fish dish.

13. If Someone Could Visit Italy Only One Time, What or Where Would You Tell Them to See?

The “Manhattan of the Middle Ages,” or San Gimignano for its towers, its atmosphere, and the surrounding landscape.

14. If You Were To Describe Your Work To Someone How Would You Describe It?

I am a craftsman who creates furniture that is both functional and artistic. I strongly believe in the value of handmade items. I do not use robots or numerically controlled machines, and I am not critical of those who do, but I want my work to reflect my character and my sensitivity. Every piece must convey the soul of its creator.

Don't forget to discover more of Emanuel's beautiful marble furniture, lighting and decor pieces.

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