Eleonora Curti: From Diverse Jobs to Designing Rome’s Commemorative Medal
Rome, April 24 – Eleonora Curti, a 41-year-old Roman native from Ostia, has achieved a significant milestone in her artistic career, designing the latest commemorative medal for the Natale di Roma (Birthday of Rome). This year’s celebration marks the 80th anniversary of the Republic, and Curti’s design was selected for its sober elegance, featuring the number “80” with the zero inspired by the elliptical paving of Piazza del Campidoglio, a direct reference to Rome. The twelve-pointed star at the center of the piazza has been replaced by the “Stella d’Italia” (Star of Italy), a central element of the Italian Republic’s emblem.
Curti’s path to this recognition was not straightforward. For two decades, she navigated a series of diverse jobs to support herself and her son, now 12 years old. Her employment history includes roles as a waitress, gastronomy assistant, shop assistant, and school assistant. Despite these varied occupations, her passion for art remained a constant. “I had to adapt, because I am a mother,” Curti stated, reflecting on her past. “I drew in my free time, but in the meantime, to support myself and then my son, I had to do a bit of everything.”
A Dream Rekindled: The School of Art of the Medal
The turning point came unexpectedly when her aunt, noticing Eleonora’s dedication to painting in her spare time, presented her with a notice for the School of Art of the Medal (Sam) at the Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (State Mint and Polygraphic Institute). Established in Rome in 1907 by King Victor Emmanuel III, the school aims to elevate the artistic quality of Italian coinage and medals. Although initially skeptical, Curti decided to pursue the opportunity, passing two rigorous exams in drawing and bas-relief modeling. Three years later, she is now an advanced trainee at the prestigious institution.
Curti hopes her story will inspire her son, who has faced challenges including bullying, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia. “He told me ‘Mom, I’m proud of you.’ I hope my story teaches him that you have to insist and insist: he suffered from bullying and other problems, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia. I would like to pass on the message that he must believe more in himself, that he should not abandon a dream,” she shared. The artist also expressed her satisfaction that for two consecutive years, women have designed the commemorative medal, affirming their significant contribution in this field.
The Impact of the Design and Future Aspirations
The medal, unveiled at the Campidoglio for Rome’s birthday, was a moment of pride for Curti and her son, who was present at the ceremony. Her design’s thoughtful incorporation of Roman and national symbols has been well-received. Curti hopes to continue her work within the school’s framework and explore further opportunities, potentially collaborating with other female artists.
This achievement not only highlights Curti’s individual talent and resilience but also underscores the enduring legacy and artistic significance of the School of Art of the Medal in preserving and evolving Italy’s numismatic heritage. Her journey serves as an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one’s passions, even amidst life’s challenges.
