"A Good Florentine is Always in the Shop"
- A saying from early-Rennaissance Florence, Italy
If you look closely at the image from a 15th Century engraving (above) you will see that very saying being carried out in everday life. On both sides of the street, craftsmen and artisans can be seen working happily away in shop spaces that are open to the air and to the public. They are busy creating and making their wares - and yet are also available to sell, answer questions or, if the spirit moves them, have a 'chit-chat' with passers-by.
This idea appeals to me in a big way.
Perhaps the appeal comes from the place inside us where we find it such a pleasant thing to do to stop by an outdoor espresso cart and grab a latte - watching the barista perform magic while discussing whatever comes to mind. Or break for a coney dog from a mobile vendor - not ordering our condiments and having them put on in the kitchen, but slathered on right there before our eyes.
I recently viewed a movie about a gentleman reported to be perhaps the best sushi chef in the world. He is an artist. Yes, people come to eat his excellent food but they also want to watch him make and serve it. His restaurant is in a building, but what would be so different if the Sushi counter was outside? Customers would still be transfixed - as they were in the movie - by watching a Master at work.
People want to see what artisans do. When they are given the opportunity with food or coffee, they flock to the venue. Drawing from my experience with ourtdoor art fairs, I believe we are slowly moving back to an 'Always in the Shop'/Open-Air-Spaces scenario. It is already happening in certain places - so, it's just a matter of time.... I know I will enjoy it to the 'max'. The shops where I have worked (even my own) have offered wayyyy too much isolation and solitude. Maybe that works for ice sculptures, but not warm, friendly, beautiful, elegant wood..
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