Blog

There are certain moments in an artist’s life that feel like coming home, even if you have traveled across the ocean to get there. Earlier this month, I had the joy of returning to New York City for the annual reception of the Pastel Society of America (PSA). The event was hosted at the historic National Arts Club in Gramercy Park, a venue that holds a special place in the heart of so many artists who work in pastel.

Now based in Milan, I spend much of my time engaged with the American art community online. Screens have kept us connected in recent years, but standing in the same room with fellow painters felt profoundly different. There was unmistakable energy, a warmth that cannot be replicated virtually. Familiar faces became tangible presences once more, reminding me of so many good memories and of the bonds we build through shared passion and dedication to our craft.

One of the highlights of the evening was reconnecting with three extraordinary pastel artists whose work I deeply admire: Bethany Fields (@bfields), Eve Miller (@emem2121) and Susan M Story (@susanmstoryfineart). Meeting them in person, exchange stories, and celebrate each other’s creative growth was a true gift.

Of course, being back in New York City stirred its own emotions. The city is never static - it is a living, breathing organism of creativity. It has fulled recovered from the pandemic. I walked familiar streets with fresh eyes, feeling both like a visitor and someone returning to an old friend. Or even, returning home….

I could not resist a stop at the Guggenheim Museum, where I made my way straight to Franz Marc’s Yellow Cow. This joyful, whimsical creature never fails to lift my spirits. For me, it represents the embodiment of carefree joy and artistic freedom, a reminder to hold onto playfulness even in the pursuit of mastery.

As I return to my studio in Milan, I carry with me the faces, conversations, and inspirations from this trip. Art is a solitary practice in many ways, but it is also a dialogue: between artist and subject, between viewer and painting, and between peers who share the same passion. New York reminded me once again: our creative journeys are not meant to be walked alone. And this amazing city will be forever home to me.