Maria Chiara Barone: From a Passion for Impressionists to Clay, Between Columns and Relics of the Past...

My grandmother used to say that I was the artist of the family, and this has been true since my childhood. I would still play with her, creating beautiful tulle dresses for Barbies, and I was already fascinated by the Impressionists that my parents showed me during our travels, and which I would later study in high school. It was precisely at that time that I began to paint and draw. What a joy! I was so proud when the high school art teacher presented my drawing as an example of the best drawing in the school!

It all started like this: my passion grew more and more, especially during my studies in architecture in Rome and Lausanne. Figurative art and architecture merged, and other inspirations were added. Not only did the great painters representing various artistic movements take place in my artistic imagination, but also the magnificent buildings from all eras. Columns, in particular, and archaeological ruins became an integral part of my life. Indeed, I am completing a PhD at EPFL on the origin of the column, I become a "heritage architect," and I travel extensively in Greece. I try to represent them as architects and artists once did during their "Grand Tour" of Italy and Greece. Of course, being born and raised in Rome, I feel even closer to antiquity, as if I had it a bit in my blood...

I encounter and study Roman and Hellenistic sculpture at university by taking several courses in the Faculty of Letters, in the heart of downtown Rome. It is from these studies that my desire to sculpt is born. I finally realize my dream in Switzerland, thanks to Iza (Isabelle Andrevol), a renowned sculptor who teaches me modeling and stone sculpture. However, it is modeling that I choose to pursue on my own and which brings me the most beautiful results. Ah... clay... I love this supple material that takes shape through my hands.

All the knowledge and passions acquired during my years of study and personal experimentation, I put at the service of those who are curious and eager to try and enjoy a little art! I decided to open "Roma à St-Prex" to bring a bit of myself, my life, and my birthplace into the place that welcomed me and that I deeply love: the beautiful village of St-Prex. The drawing, painting, and modeling classes are mainly intended for children, as they are our future and art is in their small hands! Adults are also welcome if they wish. I look forward to seeing you in large numbers at 16 Rue du Pont-Levis in St-Prex!