A Bella Ceramica story.
Have you ever been to Italy and explored the little ancient towns? And, one day you and your travel companion just happen to stumble upon an old local shop — it’s probably been there for twenty years–and it’s filled with an impressive assortment of Italian ceramics. And, you’ve just fallen in love with Italian ceramics on your trip. Of course, you weren’t looking for the shop in particular, but there it was. You must check it out and your friend agrees. So you go inside.
The owner, Claudio, introduces himself and warmly welcomes you into his shop. You’re immediately taken with his pride in his collection and his business. He explains to you in his sing-songy Italian accent how he travels all over Italy looking for the best new ceramics artists. And, he tells you about the creative people he’s worked with for years. Then, you notice that he’s wearing the pride of his work all over his face. Yes, it’s in his eyes and his smile.
But, it’s not just his shop that he loves. You learn that it’s also his big Italian appreciation of family, food, wine, and life. Oh, Claudio is just so wonderful to chat with. You could listen to his stories forever. In fact, it feels like you’ve been friends forever. At the very least, you just know you’ll be friends forever more.
As you chat, he catches you eyeing a ceramic dish. You confess that you absolutely adore it. He relates the story about the artist and the piece. That’s it. You’re going to buy it. It will be the best memento–and momento–of the trip.
Well, we’ve never been to Italy. But, this story basically happened to us on Piedmont Ave at Bella Ceramica. Go there, meet Claudio Luporini for a genuine Italian (ceramics) experience. Okay, Claudio does not have a sing songy Italian accent but he can do one for you.
More About Bella Ceramica
What they offer: Claudio travels all over Italy to source fine ceramics. He goes to small old towns in the mountains to discover fresh talent. And, he carries work by artists that he has forged relationships with years ago too. Authentic and varied collection of Italian ceramics. And, Claudio! OMG.
Address: 3982 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA 94611
Phone: (510) 601-7938
Instagram: www.instagram.com/bella_ceramica/
Website: www.shop.bellaceramica.com/
Neighborhood: Piedmont Ave
