Issue #26
Ippolita Rostagno
La "Made In Italy"
Artist and jewelry designer Ippolita Rostagno spent her childhood in Florence but for the last 25 years has adopted New York City as her home. Her life has been full of work, creativity and intensity, for which she is grateful. Her daughter, Maya, is the center of her universe, along with her sister, Ilaria.
I run a fine jewelry company, IPPOLITA, and blow glass.
My mother is American so I had roots here, but I chose NY because it’s the most compelling city in the world.
My best memory is more like a recurring life affirmation. Driving in from the airport I just love seeing the NY skyline appear suddenly from around the bend. Its majesty and rawness are so distinctive.
My studio is my favorite room in the house. I feel like this image captures my aesthetic: feminine but with an industrial edge.
It’s interesting to see what an expat tribe looks like. Do we still look Italian?
Living abroad has made me a better advocate for all things Italian. Currently I am on a crusade to save craft from extinction by creating a website for the distribution of artistic products and know-how.
