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samantha cortes

The Last Leatherworkers of Le Marche: Preserving Slow Fashion In The Italian Countryside

 By: Samantha Cortes URBINO, ITALY — Hidden amongst a sea of leather handbags, patterned silk scarves and feathery dreamcatchers stands 65-year-old store owner Donato Colombo.  65-year-old Urbino store owner Donato Colombo opened his handmade leather goods store, Ars Nova di Colombo Donato, over 20 years ago. The artisan’s livelihood has been threatened by the global fast fashion industry. [Photo: Ava Roberts] Behind the counter, Colombo hammers away at a piece of Tuscan leather. The display of hanging crystal necklaces and delicate wire rings clank together as he creates the first indents on the soon-to-be pair of sandals.  “I’ve always wanted… Read More »The Last Leatherworkers of Le Marche: Preserving Slow Fashion In The Italian Countryside

Samantha Cortes

Nearly a month ago, I sat alone at the Rome airport, nervously awaiting my journey to the countryside town of Urbino. I never could have imagined the community of supportive friends and faculty I would find in this small corner of Le Marche. From grabbing late-night gelato in the Piazza to dancing down the cobblestone streets, Urbino has given me life-changing experiences and unforgettable memories. The curriculum here has given me my first hands-on experience with international reporting and has pushed the bounds of my multimedia journalism skills. I am incredibly grateful for the time I spent in Urbino, ciao! … Read More »Samantha Cortes