Salonia’s first steps as a builder were in the workshop of the master Salvatore Pulvirenti, builder of Sicilian puppets, who allowed Gianfranco to take just three lessons, and then continue the rest of his learning as an autodidact. Slowly Salonia improved his technique thanks to a manual dexterity already in his possession, refining himself in the repoussè technique. This was followed by remarkable skills in wood carving, drawing, painting and sewing, all of which are fundamental skills for a worthy Sicilian puppet builder. Salonia is known all over the world for his own style, that is to say for the use only of the repoussè technique in every part of the armour of his puppets, eliminating the use of punches.

Salonia is known all over the world for his own style, that is to say for the use only of the repoussè technique in every part of the armour of his puppets, eliminating the use of punches.

“Even today I continue this passion, which in the meantime has become my only job, with love and dedication, with the hope of improving without ceasing to learn”