Where do you get your inspiration for your creations?
An inspiration is not always a concrete, real or tactile thing for me, but something which can also arise from a thought, or a mood. The architecture and design of the 20th century - alongside its lines and volumes - are part of my work and my ideas, and help me create a concept, a design, and then a true and proper bag.
What is the philosophy of the Maison?
Respect, quality and passion.
Respect means creating only on commission, producing only what is ordered. It signifies respect for the materials we use and for my artisans, who work with their hands on every piece with love, and not for a seasonal item, but one that lasts for life, since we produce objects which we are able to repair. Quality lies in choosing the best raw materials and only superior skins, with natural tanning and dyes. Passion is creating an object that is not produced in series, but one which is each time a bit different from the previous one and which will never equal the next.
How do you reconcile an activity like yours with new market demands and trends?
I don’t go for market trends. I don’t want to make a trendy item, but a product which my clients feel as their very own, and which accompanies them every single day.
The only thing we pay attention to is the quality and essence of what we create, to offer something honest and unique that represents Italian craftsmanship and know-how.
Each item undergoes a strict quality control and, before it leaves our workshop to be delivered to the client, it must prove to be free from defects.
Do you think the youth can be attracted to and interested in undertaking this type of activity?
I believe that if done with passion, love and creativity, this activity can attract anyone, regardless of age. As long as things stem from creativity and love, nothing is impossible.
What are the critical factors in this sector? And the prospects?
I think that the critical factor related to this and other artisanal sectors is to succeed in finding the people, especially the youth, who wish to learn the artisanal leather trade, to bring ahead the existence of trademarks, like mine, that are founded solely on the heritage of skilled, expert hands.