After nearly a year of working together, Joseph D'Oronzio and I finally sat down, quietly, with a camera between us to record his memories of Attilio Piccirilli. Joseph’s mother, Antoinette, was the secretary at the now-legendary Leonardo da Vinci School of Art in Manhattan. Her connection to the school made Joseph’s testimony particularly valuable, as he shared vivid recollections of a time when the all-Italian faculty at the Leonardo (as the school was affectionately known) contributed greatly to New York’s artistic scene.
It was a memorable day. Joseph’s recollection of the school and of Attilio Piccirilli has now become an intrinsic part of The Piccirilli Factor. Looking back, I can't imagine how the film could have been made or had the same impact without Joseph’s invaluable input. His words serve as a time bridge, linking the past to the present, bringing the heart of the film's subject much closer to the audience.
This crucial part of The Piccirilli Factor, and the year of research that went into it, was made possible thanks to the generous support of Tiro a Segno, a foundation dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Italian Colony in New York. Their contribution has allowed us to capture voices like Joseph’s, ensuring that this important history will resonate with generations to come.
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