"The Sicilian puppet is a work of art between history and fantasy that recalls the childhood stories of every Sicilian."
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”
The opinion of the Governance
Gianfranco Salonia is a true puppeteer. Being a puppeteer for a Sicilian is a historical, cultural and artistic path. Gianfranco’s puppets in their silver and golden armors are knights with a proud look and represent the image of the ancient children of Trinacria. Fascinating heroes of an ancient world.
Betty Scaglione Cimò – Madrina of the African Sea
