GCL~ Carnevale

Art, shopping, stories, jewelry and more.

embracing the spirit of international living

Venezia ~ Carnevale

COVER IMAGE

Grand Canal by Terry Kathryn Lawrence

PUBLISHER

GLOBAL CHIC ART

EDITOR Terry Kathryn Lawrence

Copy Editor/ Writer Andrew James Lawrence

Contributors/Writers Auguste Carter Ella Grace Carter Kimberly Nixon Maryann Lawrence Shelley Brooks Sample Terry Windquist

REFLECTIONS FROM THE EDITOR As I welcome you to this issue of GCA I cannot help but reflect on how I arrived at this place: publishing a magazine. It was never even a thought before last year but now it is a reality. The reality of Covid-19 serves as a reminder that our future is uncertain and may not always be what we imagined it would be. The great challenge in life is facing this uncertainty and finding the courage and agility to adapt to new realities and set new goals even with the knowledge that it could all change again. I regret not being able to spend time creating new memories with the friends and family that I miss. This time, however, has opened new outlets for creativity including my newest endeavor: Global Chic Lifestyle. The down time has given me the opportunity to reflect and enjoy the many travels and experiences I have been fortunate enough to have. Travel can either meet our expectations or disappoint us and travelers are often disappointed, or at least annoyed, with the intrusion of modernity into their experience. The sight of McDonalds in Egypt or electrical outlets in ancient castles quickly pull us back to earth. But there still exist places in the world that are truly foreign, reverent, and ethereal. There is a place where the mist rises like a specter off brick walled canals, where you lose your way and find it again in a labyrinth of bridges and narrow streets. To the right, a tall, masked spirit glides across the cobblestones and to the left Piazza San Marco echoes with the peeling of the Campanile’s bells. This issue of GCA is a tribute to Carnevale; a wonderful time of the year to visit Venice. Buy a mask, don a costume and toast to Carnevale. Indulge yourself in its magic. Terry Kathryn Lawrence

In this issue

CARNeVALe & VENezia KIMBERLY NIXON

6-17

THE SMART TRAVELERS CHAPERONE Expectations TERRY KATHRYN LAWRENCE

20-25

THE FLAVORS OF ... Venezia

26-31

ADORNMENTS

MARYANN LAWRENCE

32-37

GALLERY COLLECTION -Global Chic Art TERRY KATHRYN LAWRENCE

38-53

METAMORPHOSIS

ECLAT Designs BY CRYSTIN

54-59

DESTINATION ROAD TRIP ROYAL ANTIQUES New Orleans

60-69

INSPIRATIONS

REIMAGINED Jewels Terry Windquist

70-77

GINGERSNAP KIDDS -Venetian Masks Andrew Lawrence

78-81

ON THE WRITE PATH AVEREY’S ADVENTURES In Venezia

82-95

SHELLEY BROOKS SAMPLE

Carnevale Venezia

Images by Kimberly Nixon

Excited to fall under the spell of Venice, Kim arose at dawn to photograph the beautifully costumed Venetians at sunrise. The tour they chose is operated by a company that leaves schedules fairly loose so there’s always plenty of time to wander alone, take a group excursion, or just simply soak up the ambience in a little café. With all the logistics handled and a tour leader to ask for help it was the perfect tour for Kim, her mother, and her sister who wanted some freedom but did not want to travel completely on their own. A tour of Italy through Rome, Florence, Tuscany and Venice forged memories of a February that would last a lifetime for a mother and her two daughters. For Kim, an avid photographer and one of those two daughters, the trip would afford her the alone time she needed to pursue her photography. Her mother and sister would join a tour group on excursions to go shopping or wander the streets of iconic Italian cities.

Venezia Carnevale no. 1

Venezia Carnevale no. 2

Venezia Carnevale no .3

Venezia Carnevale no. 4

Venezia Carnevale no. 5

“I came to the entrance of St. Mark’s and was overwhelmed with emotion. How beautiful it was!”

Venezia Carnevale no. 6

Excited to fall under the spell of Venice, Kim planned to be up at dawn in order to photograph the beautifully costumed Venetians in the light of the Venetian sunrise. Early the next morning she prepared her camera and gear and ventured off on her own through the labyrinth of narrow walkways and bridges. Soon the narrow streets revealed the open air of St. Mark’s Square and she found herself immersed in the dream of Carnevale!

The scene, the lighting, and the glorious costumes were unlike any other photographic opportunity she had encountered. And on this last morning in Venice the images she captured were stunning. Although Kim was never one to venture into a city by herself, especially in a foreign country, she counted the memory of that morning among the most important of the trip.

These are some of Kim’s images from that unforgettable morning.

“I would rarely venture off by myself, especially in a foreign country, but the experience of being there alone was one of the best memories of my trip.”

Venezia Carnevale no. 7

Italy

Population: 59 million

Total Fertility Rate (Average number of babies born to reproductive-age women): 1.2

Gross National Income per Capita: $42,270

Percent Living in Urban Areas: 71

Overall Life Expectancy at Birth: 82

Life Expectancy at Birth for Females: 84

Life Expectancy at Birth for Males: 80

Percent of Population under Age 15: 13%

Percent of Population Ages 65 and Older: 24%

Expectations Terry Kathryn Lawrence

I learned a long time ago that if I ‘study’ too much about the place I am going to visit I might be disappointed. Not that each place isn’t wonderful, but often my imagination exceeds reality. My first comment on seeing the Eiffel tower from a boat cruise on the Seine was ‘it looks smaller than I expected’; I could have had the same comment about the Mona Lisa. Photos without context so often distort our view and perception. The trip to Venice for Carnevale included three other accomplished photographers. I did know it would be an amazing trip. I had visited Venice in the summer and found it to be magnificent but crowded and I was anxious to see it in a different light. Traveling with photographers is unlike any other travel experience. It is traveling with people who ‘get you’. They have no problem when you stop and turn around for a different perspective or return to the same location numerous times until the light is perfect. They understand when you set the alarm and rise before dawn to catch that ‘first light’ and they rarely grow impatient as you take the time to compose your image.

Carnevale is known for its outrageous festive balls and we decided that we needed to attend one. Prices range from barely affordable to completely out of reach for a seat at the table at the world-famous Florian. Our friend Alexandra was making the arrangements for our hotel, water taxi, and the ball. After much investigation she finally settled on the Hot Chocolate Ball. We laughed as we realized this would most likely be the most expensive cup of hot chocolate we would ever purchase but we needed an excuse to really become a part of Carnavale. The description of the event was vague, but it did require costumes and we felt the title said it all.

We all brought costumes. I had a long skirt and velvet cloak that I bought at an antique store in Savannah, Ga. which, as the story goes, was worn by a ‘lady of the evening’. I bought a mask with ruby red lips to go with the cloak. Lizbeth was a Queen, Alexandra was glamorous in her sparkly dress and mask adorned with feathers, and Deanne looked adorable as the kitchen wench in the costume Lia brought for her, although that may not have been her assessment. We ventured off to become a part of the ethereal celebrations. We ventured off to become a part of the ethereal celebrations.

Our five-block walk led us to a magnificent old Venetian estate. Upon entering we were escorted to an intimate ballroom where we were entertained by a pianist, a soloist, and a trio of other extraordinary musicians.To be seated among the costumed audience was extraordinary. When the concert ended the doors to an adjoining room were opened and we were treated to our hot chocolate. A magnificent 3 tier chocolate fountain was the centerpiece of this gorgeous display. It was a presentation of fruit, amazing Italian cookies, wine and a variety of other beverages, including cups of hot chocolate. Dipping my cookies and fruit in the beautiful warm chocolate, I smiled and reflected on how my expectations had been so utterly exceeded. How naïve I was to think the Venetians would do anything less than spectacular.

When the concert ended the doors to an adjoining room were opened and we were treated to our hot chocolate.

We have since lost one of those friends and it is always bittersweet to think of Lizbeth in her Queen costume. She hauled her costume all the way to Venice and it took up half of her suitcase but was such an integral piece of our memory and the part we all played in our magical experience of the Hot Chocolate Ball.

Lizbeth

Each friend represents a world in us, a world not possible until they arrive and it is through this meeting that a new world is born. Anais Nin

Venezia

Fresh melon, prosciutto and cheese

Shrimp in Garlic & Butter Risotto with mushrooms and grated parmesan Spiralized zucchini with pesto Simple green salad

Tiramisu and fresh raspberries for dessert and french press Venetian coffee topped with whipped cream

Maryann Lawrence

Glass has always been a mainstay in fashionable jewelry. With its bold colors and infinite varieties, rhinestones, cut glass, and “paste” are an excellent choice for your foray into the festivities of Venice’s Carnivale. But don’t just stop at Venetian glass. Czechoslovakian glass was prized in the early 20th century for its unusual milky - almost gemlike - colors. Czech glass was able to duplicate that the beauty of stones such as jade and carnelian without the high cost. The middle of the 20th century introduced the “rhinestone.” Meant to mimic the prized qualities of diamonds, eventually rhinestones became cherished for their own unique style. A woman could don a rhinestone necklace featuring “rubies,” “sapphires” and “emeralds” at a fraction of the cost of the real thing .

Bohemian Garnet Necklace from the 1920s

Austro-Hungarian gemstone bangle in gilded sterling, 1930s

Mid century blue enamel dangle earrings in silver,1950s

Blue carved Czech glass necklace from the 1920s

Bold cocktail ring with faux gemstones, 1960s

Rhinestone bracelet from the Hollywood Regency style of the 1940s and 1950s

36 Bohemian Garnet Necklace from the 1920s

Festive enamel and ruby stone earrings, 1940s

Czech glass choker with carved hummingbird design, 1920s/30s

Egyptian revivial Czechoslovakian brass and glass necklace attributed to Max Neiger, 1930s

“The Italy I had in mind at the moment was a fusion of the black and white movies of the fifties and the equally monochrome medium of my metier. Winter, thus, was my season.” Joseph Brodsky

V ENETIAN D REAM S he recalled her inspiration for this image. Writings by Joseph Brodsky found in Watermark, images by David Hamilton in his book featuring Venice, and the incredible audio visual show in the limestone quarry in Provence at the Carrier de Lumieres in les Baux de Provence which at the time featured vintage

images of old Venice. Never did she dream that she would be able to photograph this incredible scene, let alone have her images exceed her expectations. As an artist, that does not happen very often, which made this experience even more impactful.

M ASK & T WO F ANS

M ASK & T WO L ILIES S he was especially drawn to this costume. Perhaps the lilies reminded her of a few of her favorite images of flowers. During a photographic sabbatical in France with a group of eight amazing women, she had been given an assignment to each write a stream of consciousness on the topic of creativity. In complete silence they wrote and then proceed to create images that reflected the content of their writings. She typically wrote about simplicity, a vague and ephemeral goal she tried to strive towards. She felt that if she lived a remarkably simple life it would enhance her creativity and give her the time to work on her images. Although this was not a simple mask by any means, the pair of lilies did add a serene and quiet feeling. The images that she created for this assignment were of a single lily, and a pair of lilies that she had bought at a French market that morning. A s a child she would have found them creepy, but now as an adult and as an artist, she was simply stunned by the beauty and attention to detail afforded in the creation of the amazing costumes and masks. Italy is home to such a wide array of styles, food, art, and music but it is the most unique of cities, Venice during Carnevale, that she holds as her favorite. Traveling to Venice with other photographers was nothing short of incredible and counts among the best photographic sabbaticals of her life. Her images would bring to mind some of the most unique and ethereal experiences of her life.

C ARNEVALE L EATHER T here were few words in her vocabulary that could describe the ambience of Venice during Carnavale. Perhaps if she were a poet… but all she could hope for was to be able to capture the mystical mood through her images. Magical, surreal, these were the trite words that came to her mind, yet none embodied the air of celebration that danced through the streets of the city. The whole of the city seemed to be a movie set, complete with ordinary people all playing their intricate parts; costumes, music, fog, canals, and gondolas. No other place on earth is quite like this city during the celebration of Carnevale.

I LLUSION

T he juxtaposition of the two costumed Venetians intrigued her. Rarely did she think about the people that were wearing the costumes. To her, they became the costume. As she mulled over this image she began to imagine the conversation between the two of them. She smiled as she imagined them talking about their next break, or maybe chatting about the crazy tourists who took hundreds of photos from every possible angle. She rather liked the idea of not thinking about the reality of who they were but instead the illusion of these special characters who were there simply to delight the tourists and add to the ambience of Venezia.

T HE R ED M ASK S he appreciated the attention to detail in the costumes and masks, but never really thought much about the people underneath the costumes before. In her reality, they simply appeared and wandered the streets of Venice stopping for photographs and adding to the illusion of magic during the Venice Carnevale. She thought about the person under the costume, getting ready, mending buttons, struggling to keep their mask in place...she stopped, that was way too much reality for her. She decided to erase those thoughts from her head and continued to think of them simply as moving costumes...one more thing to love about the celebration of Carnevale.

T HREE V ENETIANS I n the early morning hours, the Venetians were preparing to descend upon St. Mark’s Square dressed in exquisite costumes. Gracefully making their way toward the Canal she could not help but think this was unlike any ‘parade’ she had ever witnessed. This Venice, this time, would remain forever etched in her memory.

She had fallen under the spell of Venice and Carnevale and it was not until a few years later when looking at her images that she realized what a completely unique experience the whole trip had been. She hoped her images reflected a small part of the mystique.

G OTHIC W INDOW & B RIDGE A n arched window, the delicate bridge, and the stunning floral arrangement - she could not describe it as charming - that would be a quaint village or a cozy little café. No, this scene was extraordinary. She walked past it each day as she went from her hotel to St. Mark’s Square, and each day she paused for a moment to appreciate the beauty. An exquisite sense of design inhabited every inch of this remarkable city. Yet, it all seemed so effortless. That was the real beauty of this city.

A RCHED W INDOW & B RIDGE A nother stunning bridge, she loved the textured walls with the slightest hint of pink. It had never been a favorite color, possibly because of her auburn hair and she was always told she couldn’t wear pink. This beautiful floral arrangement with the soft blush tones was something she could learn to live with. After all, is that not what travel is all about, embracing new ideas? While she could not envision having a pink room in her home, she just might add a small vase of pink tulips to her bedroom. She decided to try and find a beautiful hand blown vase while she was here in Venice to hold those tulips.

METAMORPHOSIS ...the art of transformation Eclat Designs by Crystin

Furniture Designer Crystin describes this transformation as only she can...

“Floating, falling, sweet intoxication. Touch me, trust me, savor each sensation. Let the dream begin, let your darker side give in to the power of the music of the night.”― Charles Hart, The Phantom of the Opera: Piano/Vocal Let the darkness fall and wrap you in its mystery. Beneath the earth where the living tread, is perpetual night. It is the land of the dead and the realm of hidden things. You find yourself descending lead by plaintive notes full of longing and foreboding. Falling, floating, slowly enthralled by the strong grip of organ notes striking deep the cords of your heart. You are frightened but cannot resist this force stronger than your fear. Leaving the light and all you’ve known behind into the music of the night. Is it the secret longing you’ve always hid deep within to feel beyond the mundane? You ache for excitement, the thrill of succumbing to what is wrong, rejected by society. You are not like the others, happy to live their lives to the monotonous beat of the drum. Theirs, a straight path with the same ending as millions of others. You want to be swept away by danger and romance. This darkness promises more. Give in to it. Blindly navigate through it. Let its cold fingers take your hand and make you a bride to the darkness.

Crystin

A search through Facebook or Pinterest for painted furniture yields the work of many talented people whose care and artistry brings new life to old pieces. But there is one artist whose work stands a head above the rest. Not only does she give new life to discarded and outdated pieces, she makes them her canvas and the transformation is nothing short of astonishing. Eclat by Crystin is that artist. Her work is opulent, moody, chic, and ornate. An empty room can be considered furnished and complete by the addition of just one of her works of art.

Faux marbling technique

Every detail is considered. The painting of the furniture is finished art in its own right, but she also achieves high quality finishes by preparing the pieces with the finest products and techniques. Priming, sanding, and repairing is completed before she begins her decorative painting. Armoires, bedside tables, dressers and more can all be touched by her magic. Inspiration comes from many sources as she often describes in her beautiful writings about each piece. Clearly, she has a vision before she begins each project.

Stencils of birds and flowers

Staging her pieces is another area where Crystin excels. She always achieves a balance, and her props lend to the ambience of the scene but never detract from her artistry. Crystin uses an array of tools to complete her pieces. Stencils, transfers, decals, and often free hand painting are critical parts of her repertoire. Her talents are astonishing. Many of her pieces look like they may have come right out of the halls of Versailles. Her work is opulent but tasteful; she has created a look all her own. A young mom of 2 toddlers it’s a wonder how Crystin manages to create such an extraordinary amount of work. She has recently developed her own line of paint colors and it is anyone’s guess what’s next. Following Crystin’s work is exciting and she freely shares her techniques with new artists through a series of live videos and tutorials. While some of her techniques can be duplicated it is Crystin’s vision and soul that make her pieces so special and unique. Furniture is shipped to buyers from across the US and she does take some commissioned work on a limited basis, but as with any artist her talents are best showcased when she has the freedom to create what comes from her heart.

Royal Antiques New Orleans is a city unlike any other that I have visited. The unique combination of the French influence, the American south, and a bit of magic makes for a most memorable visit. Situated on one of the most beautiful streets in the historic district is Royal Antiques. From the first impression you know you will not be disappointed. Window displays feature beautiful antique furniture, silver and a gorgeous array of fine jewelry. Quality and style are clearly evident. Upon entering you may be greeted by Leslee, the owner, whose knowledge of the history of each piece is impressive. Royal Antiques is a family business with a 150-year history. All of the pieces are curated during Leslee’s frequent buying trips to Europe and are shipped back to the US for their store.

Situated on one of the most beautiful streets of the historic district is Royal Antiques. A family business with a 150 year history. From the first impression you will not be disappointed.

Numerous decanters, crystal and silver items

Royal Antiques specialize in antiques mostly from Great Britain, France, and Italy. An impressive sense of style and design is displayed through the various vignettes around the store. Though full, the store is not overly cluttered, and each piece makes its own statement. The shop evokes a wonderful ambience of the Old World. Small silver pieces, wall art, ornate oversized armoires, dining and living room sets and gorgeous chandeliers, they have it all.

A beautiful addition to any vanity

Gorgeous chandeliers and vintage sofas

A stunning selection of mirrors and wall sconces

The business was founded in 1899 by Hermina Keil, who came to New Orleans from Alsace- Lorraine, Germany. In her obituary, she was said to be “a veteran antique dealer who counted among her customers, Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson.” She became an authority on antiques, particularly rare furniture, silver and antique jewelry. Her son, Morris Keil, expanded the business, and today his two daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren all contribute to its future.

Dining room sets, side chairs and wall art

While I was photographing the store Leslee’s neighbor, who happens to be her cousin, popped in from the antique store just down the street. It appears the whole family is involved in the trade of antiques and collectibles in New Orleans. While visiting NOLA (short for New Orleans, LA) be sure to hit a few of the iconic and well-known tourist attractions as they are popular for a reason. But spend a few hours wandering off the beaten path to find some of the smaller shops. Chat with the owners and ask their favorite places to visit. You will be sure to find some hidden gems in the captivating city of New Orleans and don’t forget to stop for beignets and French press coffee.

309 Royal Street New Orleans, LA 70130 https://royalantiques.com/

Reimagined Jewels is a project that involves deconstructing vintage jewelry and fashioning it into contemporary and stylish pieces

Reimagined Jewels By Terry Lynn Windquist Jewelry Artist

I was introduced to the world of jewelry at an early age. My mother and grandmother opened their jewelry boxes and dressed me up with necklaces, bracelets, and rings. This continued for years as I played dress up with my mom’s jewelry, clothes, hats, purses, and high heels. My mom was the image of June Cleaver in the 50’s television sitcom, Leave It to Beaver. Every morning she dressed in the current fashion with her hair styled in the latest cut and always wore a piece of jewelry. Her favorite necklace being the pearls my dad gave her as a wedding present. I often wear my mom’s pearl necklace, and a few of her earrings, pins, and rings. I really like all her jewelry but most of it is simply outdated. This is how I came up with the idea to remake my mother’s jewelry. Reimagined Jewels is a project that involves deconstructing vintage jewelry and fashioning it into contemporary and stylish pieces.

Just looking at the beads in glass containers inspires me to create new pieces.

Beads and jewelry tools

My collection of jewelry began with the pieces I inherited from my mother and grandmother. My workplace overflows with well-worn vintage necklaces, bracelets, beads, pearls, rhinestones, turquoise, earrings, old watches, and pendants just waiting for a new beginning. I keep my beads in glass jars which makes it easier to see them all. Just looking at the beads in glass containers inspires me to create new pieces. I often string a necklace or a bracelet to match an outfit. It’s satisfying when it all falls into place.

Collection of old pearls

Silver and Pearl Necklace with Charms I love the soft tones of silver and pearls. This necklace is a combination of pearls, silver beads, charms, and red Swarovski crystals. I began by creating a choker with the silver beads, pearls, and red crystals. I strung two different strands of pearls in different millimeters and lengths. I added five silver charms to one of the pearl strands and then attached the three necklaces together to make a single beautiful piece. Now, it has the soft look of silver and pearls that I love.

Silver & pearl necklace with charms

Red beaded necklace with Victorian charms

Outdated red necklaces and beads

Red Beaded Necklace with Victorian Charms I’m using mostly red beads, pearls, and some gold mixed in. I decided to take apart a favorite triple strand red beaded necklace to create something new and different. I restrung the red beads in a variety of sizes to make an 18-inch necklace. I also added a few of my favorite charms. The large charm with rubies belonged to my Grandma Lou, and the Eiffel Tower charm was a gift from a friend who traveled to France. I made a choker out of pearls and Swarovski red crystals and added a red pendant to create the finishing touch. These necklaces look great alone, but they look stunning when worn together.

Pearl and red pendant choker

I still had beads left over so I was able to make a couple of key chains, bookmarks, and a few stick pins. I also designed a two-strand bracelet and added charms to it. Since red is my favorite color, I wear this bracelet all the time. I encourage you to look at your jewelry. All of us have broken, forgotten pieces and unused jewelry just waiting for a new beginning. Taking something old and adding a twist of your own or something new will keep your cherished memories alive. Just tell me what you imagine and I can create new keepsakes for you. All of us have broken, forgotten pieces and unused jewelry just waiting for a new beginning.

Reimagined Jewels by Terry Lynn Windquist Contact Terry at: terrylynnwindquist@gmail.com

Old beads transformed . . . bracelet, stick pins, bookmark, earrings, key chain . . .all beautiful and new items

Venetian Masks Andrew James Lawrence

Masks are the iconic symbol of the Venice carnival today, but their history is rich in meaning and tradition. The carnival itself is a thousand years old and has been documented in official records as early as 1094 and in 1296 the Senate of the Republic of Venice officially enshrined the carnival as a public festivity. In these earlier centuries, the carnival lasted weeks and featured music, dancing, and parties as well as a more raucous array of festivities than we are accustomed to now. Acrobats and jugglers were highlights among the attractions and very few people worked during the weeks preceding lent. Public shows and exhibitions were organized throughout the city and the theaters hosted many masked plays. In private, parties were held in houses and cafés and indulgent and raffish performances entertained Venetians of all class and creed.

Blank masks ready for painting

Costumes, and especially masks, made it possible to indulge in the festivities in anonymity and the rigid class structure of the Venetian Republic could temporarily be eschewed. During the rest of the year, Venetians adhered to a caste system so oppressive that even their clothes were organized according to their professions. The opportunity to live and celebrate as equals once a year served as a release that helped to maintain the order necessary to operate a republic at a time when civilian rule was fragile and rare.

Craft paints & glitter used to decorate blank masks

Creativity

In the earliest centuries, the masks and costumes were much simpler than they are today. As the carnival evolved the dress code for costumes became stricter and by the seventeenth century two primary costumes had emerged. Men wore a costume called a Baùta while women wore the Moretta. Baùta consists of a tricorn hat, black and red cape, and a white mask. The mask has a furrowed brow, an exaggerated nose, and no mouth; only a protruding chin that allows the wearer to eat and drink without revealing his face. Moretta is a dark velvet mask that is held in place by a button in the mouth. Because of this construction, the character is often called Moretta muta (mute Moretta). The carnival gained its greatest renown during the eighteenth century when elites from around Europe traveled to participate in the festivities. The carnival was outlawed late in that century after Venice came under the domination of France and then Austria before being incorporated into the Italian Republic in 1866. The tradition persisted in private and on small islands in the lagoon but didn’t return as the carnival we know today until 1979.

Today, Venetians and tourists carry on a one-thousand-year-old tradition, but the festivities are decidedly quieter and more reverent. Most Venetians refrain from speaking when behind a mask and walk the streets in parades and organized processions. These quiet demonstrations yield unearthly experiences for tourists. Along with the traditional costumes of Boùta and Moretta, the masks and costumes of characters from the traditional Italian theater such as Pantalone, Columbina, and Arlechino are present throughout the city during the carnival. Today, the carnival constitutes a unique celebration of the history and culture of the city of Venice. Painted masks celebrating Carnavale!

Averey’s Adventures

By Shelley Brooks Sample

The following excerpts are from a new collection of short stories Avery’s Adventures ...a dream?...time travel?...a wild imagination? the complete story can be found on Facebook at On the Write Path Images by Terry kathryn Lawrence She had guarded that old box that now sat next to her as if someone might break in and steal it. Grammie had entrusted it to her over a year ago, yet it remained unopened. Inside were the only remaining possessions of her Great Aunt Sam, Grammies elder sister. Aunt Sam had never had children, so now the cardboard box, marked my favorite things, belonged to Averey. She didn’t remember very much about her great aunt except that she had been a writer and had loved to travel. * * * * Putting her wine glass down, she nervously reached her hand into the loosely closed top of the old cardboard box and pulled out something wrapped in tissue paper. She gently unfolded the tissue to reveal a beautiful, elaborately decorated, full face mask. It was a Venetian mask, the kind worn at Carnival in Venice. Averey suspected her Aunt Sam must have bought it in Venice on one of her many trips to Europe. Turning the mask around, she couldn’t resist the urge to put it on. Masks had always made her feel like she was suffocating, but now, at 23 years old, this mask made her feel light and free as though she was flying off to a distant land. But that was silly, it must be the wine!

She was jolted awake by the sharp squealing of train wheels and the smell of coffee. Removing the mask, she rubbed her eyes and glanced around her new environment searching for something familiar. She was sitting in a dimly lit, luxurious train compartment that was gently rocking back and forth, mesmerizing her with its charm, yet filling her with alarm. She ran her hand across the velvet brocade seat and found her old dependable backpack. Hugging it like a security blanket, she prayed that she was just dreaming.

Carnevale Masks

She gently unfolded the tissue to reveal an amazing, beautiful, elaborate mask. Holding it up she was face to face with a part of her Aunt Sam’s life.

The world flew by outside the window with unfamiliar scenes. Where in the world was she? There was no logical explantation for this. She wondered, was she out of her mind, or out of her time? Her heart was pounding rapidly, but for some reason, though bewildered, she wasn’t afraid. This had to be one of her vivid dreams from which she often had trouble waking up. But even if it was, she didn’t want to wake up, at least not yet. Without warning the carriage door opened, “Bongiorno signorina, Il te o il caffe?” She knew some Italian. He politely repeated, “ Il te I il caffe, signora?” “Oh, coffee please, Espresso with lots of sugar.” “I am your steward, Mateo. I speak English. We arrive in Venice in 10 Minutes at 18:25.” As he handed her the return train ticket and her Passport, his eyes were drawn to and focused on the Mask. “It looks like you may win “la maschera piu bella”, the most beautiful mask.” It suddenly occurred to her that she must be on the Orient Express, headed to Carnival!

Venezia at Dawn

As the train slowed to a stop, Mateo whispered in her ear, “Carnevale in Venice makes you feel like you have been suspended in time between the past and the present,” and with a whistle, the doors were opened to the platform. As Averey stepped off the train at the Santa Lucia station she was stepping into the unknown. The evening was cold and dark, and she was alone. Sensing her fear, Mateo escorted her to his hotel, booked her a room with a view of the canal, and arranged to meet her in the morning to explore Carnevale together. Starting to relax, she gazed out her window where the last glimmer of sun shown on the water like a spotlight waiting for the tall iron lamp posts lining the canals, to take over. Crawling into bed, the rhythm of water lapping against walls of the canal lulled her to sleep.

Masked Venetians

A multitude of languages and loud laughter filled the air.

Averey awoke refreshed and met Mateo as planned. St Marks’s square was filled with constant crowds from all over the world wearing costumes and masks of every description. They came to eat, drink and be, well, whomever they wanted to be! Streamers with twinkling gold lights adorned the square. Puppeteers and face painters displayed their talent and colorful costumes danced and laughed to the music of tambourines and washboards and flutes. A multitude of languages and laughter filled the air. Tourists wearing their winter hooded coats, lined the sides of the Grand Canal, nearly pouring into it. A parade of boats floated by lighting up the tourists in hues of purple and blue. Acrobatic dancers flew high above the crowds sharply silhouetted against a backdrop of sun-soaked red and yellow buildings. The day had slipped away, and night fell over Venice. They had talked, drank and danced behind their masks, and now the narrow lamp-lined streets led them back to their hotel.

It was 10 the next morning when Mateo met her outside the hotel, just as they had planned the night before. It was just a short walk to Gondola Dogana Vallaresso, where the pair would begin their Gondola adventure. Averey was watching the sleek, gleaming, ebony vessels bobbing up and down and swaying back and forth as if they were in a passionate Tango. “There he is!” Mateo was pointing his finger as his friend glided towards them across the canal. He wore the most recognizable uniform in the world, black shoes and pants, a striped sweater, and a straw hat adorned with a red bow. “Miss Averey, I give you my friend Guido, Gondolier extraordinaire!”

The Gondolier

Morning Ride

He took her hand and guided her to a lovely red velvet seat. Mateo joined her and placed a beautiful blanket embroidered with gold winged lions, across their laps. They were sitting between two gold dancing seahorse ornaments and to the front, a gold tableau of gondoliers manning their vessel in rough waters. A gold winged lion sat affixed to the bow leading the way. The artistry of the gondola was breathtaking. As they set off, Guido explained that the comb shaped iron ferro at the bow of the gondola, was not a simple decorative ornament, but a necessary part of the vessel that adds weight to the bow, counterbalancing the weight of the gondolier at the stern.

They were sitting between two gold dancing seahorse ornaments and their forward view was of two Gondoliers manning their vessel in rough waters, and a flying gold lion sat on the bow leading the way. The artistry was breathtaking.

The Gondola

Grand Canal

The symbolism in the ferro was shaped by tradition. The A-shape represents the twists of the Grand Canal; the six forward facing teeth corresponded to the six districts of Venice; the tooth facing inwards represents the Giudecca island; the arch above the last tooth represents the Rialto bridge; and the curve top end symbolizes the Doge’s hat. Avery found the whole experience mesmerizing. All the while Guido shared his knowledge of history and landmarks. They passed by iron flower boxes, aging walls of concrete and brick, and under many sunlit bridges. Guido announced they were approaching the bridge of sighs. “You know the legend Averey? She proudly reported, “Yes, it is where prisoners being taken to their prison cell would sigh walking on it as if it was their last sight of freedom.”

Bridge of Sighs

Guido dropped them off at the St. Lucia station just as the train rolled in. Back on the train, Averey thanked Mateo for helping her experience the exotic festivities of Carnevale. Inside the carriage, now alone, she realized that this journey wasn’t so much about her Aunt Sam, but rather a lesson from her. Carnevale opened Averey’s eyes to the experiences of different cultures, their languages, foods, and customs. She had been pulled out of her comfort zone to enjoy an intimate though short-lived experience. She placed the mask back on her face, leaned back on her backpack, and drifted off to sleep remembering Mateo’s words, “Carnevale in Venice makes you feel like you have been suspended in time between the past and the present.” As the train was pulling away from the station, Mateo leaned against her door as if he never wanted to stop protecting her. Only in time would he fully understand how much he cared for her.

Andrew Lawrence is a graduate student and MA candidate at American University in Washington DC where he is pursuing a graduate degree in international diplomacy and national security. Andrew’s writing has appeared in front of academic panels, on the desks of members of congress and everywhere in between. He has also ghost written for members of congress and foreign ambassadors as well as countless colleagues and friends. Andrew lives by the belief that life is a celebration and in that spirit practices enthusiastic musicianship, expressive painting, and generous cooking and hosting. Academic and artistic pursuits as well as his many travels from Budapest to Rome to Moscow have shaped his openness to new experiences and his easy going and adaptable disposition.

About the Artist

Using the camera as her paintbrush Terry Kathryn Lawrence creates memorable images that speak a universal language. Whether it is a landscape or a child before her lens, she manages to capture the essence of her subject;

Terry holds the Master of Photography degree and was awarded the Photographer of the Year in Michigan. She has been recognized by Kodak and Fuji for her excellence in photography. Her travels and commissioned portraits take her to wonderful locations across the US as well as many countries in Europe, Mexico and Cen- tral America. The pages of her book, Inspirations & Destinations , are filled with a beautiful collection of art images as well as writings from her travel journal. A love of travel and passion for photography has led her to organize photographic workshops for amateurs and professionals alike. Her newest venture is the publication of a magazine called Global Chic Lifestyle . Her work can be found at www. Globalchiccollection.com, on Facebook at Terry Kathryn Lawrence Photography, on Instagram at Terry Kathryn Lawrence, and her book can be viewed and purchased at Blurb.com.

About the Photographer

Master photographer Terry Windquist is a fine-art portrait photographer. Terry has received many awards for her photographs; stunning lighthouses, European landscapes, ani- mal portraits and timeless portraits of children which grace the homes of many of her clients. Her imag- es have been exhibited in Kodak’s Epcot Center and PPA’s Traveling Loan Collection. A lifelong resident of Michigan, Terry has relocated to the beautiful southern town of Fairhope Alabama on the coast of Mobile Bay. She has created a series of fine art images that incorporate the new land- scapes, foliage, and wildlife to photograph in the south. She is especially intrigued by the shrimp boats in the Bayou area. Art prints and greeting cards are available of her latest work. www.terrywindquist.com Fairhope, Alabama

About the Author Shelley’s writing interests are history-laden travel and family historical fiction. Her plans were to go to law school, but when she wrote her thesis on “how to write for publication,” she knew she had to get on “the write path.” Her first trip to the United Kingdom & Europe was when she was nineteen, with twenty-some trips since. Highlights have been discovering family history locations in England and Germany and taking a train around the full circle of the United States. She is currently writing a historical fiction of her family. As owner of “Shelley’s Retreat,” she welcomes guests from all over the world. A 1950’s home on 6 acres with Goats! A unique, private, tranquil location for travelers, writers and artists, located just outside of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Https://www.airbnb.com/h/shelleysretreat “Shelleys Retreat,” is on Facebook

Future Issues Exotic Locations

Harlequin

Provence

Mexico & Guatemala

Castles & Chateaus

European Christmas

Venetian Gate

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