Ceramicists. Clay in their hands.

Walking through the alleys of Appignano is not only a constant encounter with works of art scattered between the crossroads and on the town walls, but also a constant succession of workshops where they are created.
The photographs that form the heart of this photographic book were taken inside those very workshops: by highlighting the craftsmanship of those who work there and outlining the stories of the protagonists of a recent past, they pass on their legacy to future generations in the form of vivid and fascinating memories.

Gianfranco Mancini was born in Adria (RO) in July 1946. In 1950, he moved with his family to Montegranaro (FM), his father's hometown. He developed a passion for photography at a young age, creating several series of narrative images. He had two mentors: Luigi Crocenzi, for his effective photographic storytelling, and Mario Dondero, for the incredible photographic testimony he left us of the human journey. Gianfranco Mancini today defines himself as a "Wandering Narrator," always searching for a story that intertwines real-life and everyday experiences.

Marcello Valentini was born in Morrovalle in 1960. From a young age, he developed a deep passion for analog photography. He later moved to digital photography, perfecting his technique through courses with Maestro Stefano Ciocchetti. He currently collaborates with the "Fototeca Comunale" photography club in Morrovalle, with which he has participated in numerous group exhibitions. In 2025, in collaboration with journalist Barbara Olmai, he was accredited by the Municipality of Ussita for the "Tirreno-Adriatico" and documented the events of the "Quarto Forum della Montagna," organized by the Municipality of Castelsantangelo sul Nera. His photographic production encompasses various genres, from landscapes to performance photography, including theater, concerts, and sporting events.