Pages

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Ancora Imparo - I’m Still Learning


This summer, my family and I enjoyed a beautiful vacation exploring some of the vibrant art and culture of France and Italy. We saw the work of some of the most important painters, sculptors, and architects who have left an incredible mark on history.

Michelangelo was considered the greatest living artist in his lifetime and we were thrilled to see his masterpieces, including the Doni Madonna, the statue of “David”, The Bearded Slave, and the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel (not pictured).

Ancora imparo or "I’m still learning" were (supposedly) the parting words of Michelangelo who died at the age of 88. One might imagine that at 88, one has everything figured out. What more might be left to learn? However, these two words encapsulate a profound philosophy that no matter how skilled or accomplished one becomes, there is always more to learn. That, at 88, Michelangelo expressed his eagerness to learn and remain open to new experiences and ideas is incredibly inspiring!

These are the joys of learning, of loving what you do, of being an amateur.