Experience: Today may have been one of my FAVORITE days in Venice! My professor set up a meeting at a gallery to meet with an amazing artist, Gaspare Manos. I had never heard of him before, but immediately fell in love with his work. This particular gallery had his most recent show, Kimono. He explained how the Kimono is a beautiful and respected article of clothing, but when it is worn you feel free and easy in it. He had small canvas' lined up in a kimono shape, each canvas a small painting, all expressing a certain emotion. He also had small abstract sculptures that looked like contorted dogs with muzzles. His last painting in the back was a spiritual yellow figure splashed with a cranberry color. It was also expressing freedom. Gaspare was kind and patient with our questions. He seemed to really enjoy talking about his work. He took us to his studio to show us more work and answer more questions. His work reminded me of one of my favorite painters, Cy Twombly. When I told him this, he seemed really happy and impressed! He asked me who my favorite artists were and told me he could see me being a great art critic  or curator: one of the BEST compliments of my life! He gave me his book and inscribed it : "In the hope that you will curate one of my museum exhibitions!" He seemed to really enjoy my opinions and comments. So exciting!

http://www.gaspare-foundation.com/

Thought: Gaspare told us to do what we love and live a happy life. I want to find what I love and live a happy life :)