Sculptor Silvio Mastrodascio honoured

Over 600 attend Toronto Abruzzesi Spring dinner at Montecassino Place

The spring dinner organized by the Federazione delle Associazioni e dei Club Abruzzesi - Greater Toronto was centred on art.
The title was, in fact Art and artists of Abruzzo. "We had a memorable, beautiful night, hosted by Paola Chiarini," commented an overjoyed Ivana Fracasso, president since 2002. "An exquisite dinner, music and dance with the Limelight Band, and many guests such as Vice Consul Elena Sollazzo and Prof. Angelo Di Ianni, president of Hamilton's Federazione Abruzzese and advisor, like me, of the Regional Council for Abruzzesi Living Abroad."
Over 600 people assembled at the Montecassino Place in Downsview to honour sculptor Silvio Mastrodascio, an Abruzzese who distinguished himself for the talent, sensitivity and passion he puts in his works, renowned all over the world. "Silvio Mastrodascio is a pure, gentle, reserved artist, who uses the language of art to communicate and manages, as far as I can tell, to transmit emotions and feelings," remarked Fracasso, originally from Pescara. "The female universe, so prominent in his works, stands for beauty, kindness, mystery."
After attending the Faculty of Demographic Sciences at the University of Rome, the artist, originally from Cerqueto (Teramo), obtained a diploma from the Fine Arts Academy in Canada. "His works can be admired and appreciated," added Ivana Fracasso. "I am no art critic but I am an art lover, and I judge art with my senses. I see beauty and harmony in these works."
Ten beautiful sculptures had been placed in the hall at Montecassino Place for the occasion. All the people in attendance admired them and stopped to observe their soft lines, well-defined details, and grace.
Fracasso had been wishing to organize this event in honour of Mastrodascio for two years. "I thought about it for some time, and when I proposed it the committee accepted it unanimously and enthusiastically. "The organization of the event was entrusted to Emidio Cicconi, first vice president, who worked hard to make it a success," added Fracasso. "I wish to thank Emidio and the whole committee that worked with such energy. The goal of the project - highlighting our region of origin through a personality who makes us proud of being Abruzzesi - was fully achieved."
Silvio Mastrodascio was moved. "I was really amazed," commented the artist. "I knew that the dinner was being organized, but it was a truly grand thing. I'm proud and moved, I don't know whether I deserve so much attention. I felt the affection of all those people."
Mastrodascio is now preparing for two important dates in his artistic activity. On June 2, a personal exhibition will open in Mexico City, in the offices of the local Istituto Italiano di Cultura. Afterward, between September and October, Mastrodascio will exhibit sculptures and paintings at Rome's Museo Crocetti.
"He's such a discreet person, so averse to being at the centre of attention," concluded Fracasso. "He does not like to give speeches, nor to tell of the accolades that he gets at every personal, or of how many of his bronze sculptures are displayed in Canadian galleries and private collections. Silvio Mastrodascio lets his art speak for him."

Publication Date: 2006-04-02
Story Location: http://tandemnews.com/viewstory.php?storyid=6115