Welcome and Benvenuti to all my Lovely Followers around the World,
Yes I’m back and busy catching up on the news and events in our little bit of Chianti and beyond.
In February, It is possible to fill one’s diary with events, particularly Art Exhibitions. I love galleries, they have a sense of calm away from the madding crowds, unless you go on the opening day, which I avoid. Whilst drinking my morning coffee in Fiano and reading La Republica, I noticed an article about finding Italy, that is historically, in Art form. Just look at these fabulous pictures by Italian greats that include Umberto Boccioni, Giacomo Balla, Francesco Hayez and Federico Zandomeneghi painted between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. They really bring the era alive. This Grand Exhibition is open now through to June. Visit The Website
Then I saw another article and a completely different medium; the modern work of Maurizio Monti. What draws me to his paintings is the intense colour and the combining of the beauty found in the female form and flower petals. A sort of fairy like fantasy that reminds me of book illustrations done in the 1930’s. His exhibition is at Florence Art Gallery now until 23rd February. Do try and go!
Meanwhile, this past week has been all about the Sanremo Music Festival. Yes, it happens every February, a ‘so very Italian’ music contest to find the best singer of the year. You either love it or hate it. However, this year it was co-hosted by Claudio Baglioni who is celebrating 50 years crooning at the microphone. I have to say, he has aged rather well, despite the white hair he is looking and sounding rather good. If you hang on a minute, I’ll pop onto his website to get you some more info. OK, I’m back. Now to be honest, whilst he is hugely popular here in Italy, his music is not quite up my street. Despite that, I think we can award him the longevity medal and nominate him aging Italian Hunk of the Month! Google Sanremo 2019.
Now what’s this? Veganism seems to be taking over the world including The Vatican. Mind you, my Italian translations are not always perfect but I am sure I just read that The Pope has been offered money if he makes Lent Vegan! Well who am I to comment on this? I am almost a vegan, other than my love of cheese (sorry). This has something to do with Paul McCartney and other celebrities. When I find out more, I’ll let you know……
Anyway, this time of year in Tuscany is great for sunsets. Also the air is cold, but clean and fresh. And, when the sun shines it’s possible to sit outside in direct sunshine, as long as you are in a sheltered spot protected from the wind. So life eeez good, life eeez now! Foto J Finnigan
Am currently working hard on my fourth novel ‘Assassin’s List,’ which continues the Adventures of Joanna Wilde. Do let me know if you spent any time in Havana during the mid-1990’s, I would love to talk to you about it.
But, for now, it’s time to conjure up some Sunday Lunch. My man needs some comfort food.
Do get in touch, I love to hear from my readers.
Salute June x
Junefinnigan's Weblog 
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