Andrea D'Aurizio

Marble worker

The timeless presence of marble sculptures

Andrea draws inspiration from sacred and antique art for his sculptures
His work was showcased in several emerging artist exhibitions
He sees sculptures as a way to give memory a tangible form

Andrea D’Aurizio specialises in reproducing marble sculptures entirely by hand. He was born in Vecchiano, Tuscany, and studied at the Art Institute of Lucca and the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, where he focused on furniture and painting restoration before turning to sculpture. Andrea was featured in major emerging artist exhibitions in Pisa and Padova, including the Biennale dei Giovani Artisti, the Giubileo tour, and the G.A.I. contemporary art circuit. His early commissions included liturgical furnishings and a painted baptismal font. In his works, he blends classical and minimalist forms. "Sculpting is a philosophical act, a dialogue between memory and material," Andrea says. In his studio, he mentors aspiring sculptors, passing on traditional techniques to preserve the art of hand-sculpting.

Interview

What draws you to sculpture as a form of expression?: I am captivated by the presence in space of sculptures and by the material itself, which imparts a monumental strength, evoking a sense of timelessness. The solidity of the form, combined with its enduring nature, creates a powerful connection to eternity.
How do you approach working with different materials?: For each material, using the right tools and mastering the proper techniques is essential. For example, ancient steel chisels reveal secrets of the past, such as the skills passed down by old masters. These techniques are now at risk of disappearing from contemporary practice.
What themes do you often explore in your work?: The dominant theme in my work is the reproduction of marble pieces, including classical sculptures, sacred subjects and portraits. This ongoing practice sharpens my technical skills, allowing me to carry that precision and depth into my more personal creations.
How do tradition and innovation coexist in your practice?: Robotic 3D-technology helps speed up and simplify the sculpting process, but it must be used carefully. Overreliance on machines poses the risk of losing the unique, centuries-old craftsmanship and techniques that can only be preserved through hands-on practice.

Andrea D'Aurizio is a master artisan: he began his career in 2007 and he started teaching in 2015