Photography
The Wonders of Parma – A New Collection of Framed Prints
Aug
Perhaps it’s the location, perhaps it’s the prosciutto – whatever the reason – Parma is now fixed as one of the Italian cities that I’ve visited at least three times,
and what keeps getting me back again and again is not only the amount of culinary delights you are able to find there, but there is something in the air you breathe in Parma that just makes you feel at peace.
Walking through the city’s streets you will find yourself immersed in a unique atmosphere that makes you want to slow down a bit and take your time. It’s a good things too, as Parma has a charming and laid-back vibe that embodies the essence of Italian lifestyle, and strolling around Parma and simply admiring the various colors and sites is what inspired me to create this collection- which focuses on details, bright colors and my continued search for beauty.
You may have heard of Parmigiano-Reggiano, the Italian hard aged cheese that makes every dish flavorful to perfection, but did you know it was first made during the Middle Ages in the area of Parma?
And how can we forget about the other prized product of the city: Prosciutto di Parma! During the summer Italians (and Scott) love to eat this kind of prosciutto with things like fresh cantaloupe or figs 🙂
If you’re thinking to yourself – ‘Scott – it’s proscuitto, what’s the big deal?’ Obviously you haven’t tried Proscuitto di Parma my friend!
Alright – Grab some Prosciutto di Parma, and some Fresh Melone and Let’s Go!
When you arrive to the center of Parma, what you’ll find are streets and architecture that exude a sense of history and charm. Cobblestone streets, well-preserved medieval buildings, and elegant squares come together to create a picturesque setting – that when combined – make you feel transported back in time as you wander through these ancient streets. It was incredibly easy for me to simply let myself wander through the streets of Parma while shooting, and in prints like The Shades of Parma, Scolpito, and And in Parma I’m Found you can clearly see what I’m talking about.
Walking around Parma almost feels like a scavenger hunt – it’s like you aren’t even trying to find all these hidden gems and palaces appearing at the end of narrow streets and above rooftops, but they just kind of appear without much effort needed in trying to find them.
In A Perception of Time, you can spot the clock tower of this Palazzo that looks over Piazza Garibaldi. If you look at it closely like I did, you will start to feel lured by the fine details of the clock, as if they were telling you the stories of all the centuries it saw passing by.
Given the unique look of this shot, I couldn’t help but make this print in a Black and White variant, with the purpose of best showcasing the intricate details of this mysterious clock.
During my last trip to Parma I was shooting in Parco Ducale, which is a beautiful park just across the bridge from the city center. As I was about to head out, a magnolia tree caught my attention so I decided to stop to capture a shot of this beautiful flower you can see captured in Another Day in Paradise. After I took the shot I started wondering if that flower had any special meaning, and so naturally I asked ‘Father Google’ what was up. Little did I know that magnolias symbolize beauty, perseverance, dignity, and gifting a magnolia is a way to wish luck and prosperity to someone. Pretty cool right? I thought so 🙂 Gaby says she wants it displayed in our home sometime soon.
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Parma is also home to Pallazo della Pilota which is a vast complex of buildings that you find just as you enter the center of Parma. Inside the palace there is even a theatre called ‘Teatro Farnese’, which is an incredible wooden theater that dates back to the 17th century. It is one of the most renowned examples of Italian Renaissance theater architecture. Though it is no longer used for performances, visitors can tour the theater and appreciate its historical significance and stunning craftsmanship. I captured a shoot of the gate to enter the city through this palace in Pilotta, a symmetric series of arcs that seems to lead to an other-worldly dimension.
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Another mysterious encounter that I could not leave out of this collection is also available in both Color and Black and White. I honestly just love the charisma and mystery of the subjects capturted in in both Far Finta di Nulla and Usual Suspects. The marble statues that adorn the dome of the Basilica di Santa Maria della Steccata look like they are having a conversation and you just happened to interrupt them. *Click* *Click* “Pardon me good sirs, I’ll be on my way now” 😛
Parma is not only mystery and antiquity though, and a big component of the city is its typical Italian colorful buildings, very similar to the ones you would see in places such as Peschiera Del Garda, or in Cinque Terre.
Parma is a city that thrives on culture, not only antique, but modern as well. The streets are adorned with posters and signs announcing upcoming theater performances, art exhibitions, and music festivals. The city’s vibrant colors reflect the vibrance of its cultural scene and infuse the atmosphere with a creative energy that inspires and engages both locals and visitors alike.
Striscia di Frutta
Immerse yourself in the vibrant charm of Parma’s colorful houses as they line the streets like a harmonious symphony of hues.
Sotto il Sole, Sotto il Sole
Enjoy the warm rays of sunlight in Parma, with this print of a bright yellow house in the city center.
Permanence
An artistic print of the tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, in Parma, rising gracefully against the sky
Walking through Parma’s streets – trying to step into the mind of a local filled with a sense of pride, tranquility, and appreciation for the city’s rich heritage and warm-hearted residents. It’s an opportunity to savor the blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that make Parma a truly special place to experience.
Whether it’s delving into its rich history, enjoying the arts, or embracing the local traditions, Parma has much to offer to visitors seeking an authentic Italian experience and I’m proud to promote its priceless cultural heritage through this new collection of framed prints.
I hope that you’ve enjoyed with I’ve shared here today, and that not only do you find a work of art that you love in this collection, but that you to will take the time to take a stroll through Parma’s streets with an open heart and genuine love for this amazing city.
Cheers until next time!
Scott
