Let's Talk About Leonardo

Let’s Talk About Leonardo, a genius of immense originality and modernity
Morrison House Presents: Mirella Monti Belshé, Torpedo Factory Artist

Torpedo Factory Artist Mirella Monti Belshé will share an uncommon perspective on Leonardo da Vinci, his life and his personality, mysterious and fascinating, from his secret activities in the morgue to his arbitration of all questions related to beauty, elegance, and pageantry in princely courts. Signora Belshé’s familiarity with da Vinci, and many other High Renaissance figures, goes beyond academic learning. Her unique insights stem from authentic Italian lore - tales her grandparents told her during walks in the streets and visits to museums in her native Tuscany, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance.

Leonardo di ser Piero da Vinci was born more than 500 years ago in Tuscany, Italy.  He lived in a time of constant wars, frequent famines, religious inquisitions, and accumulations of great wealth. Unfortunately, da Vinci is not available for an interview to share his life story. However, Italian lore fueled by oral histories that have been passed down through many generations may be able to answer a question or two about who da Vinci was and how he lived.

Born in Italy, Mirella completed her studies at the University of Hawaii with master degrees in Art History and in Fine Arts.  She continued at the University, becoming a tenured Associate Professor, and also served as an art critic for the Honolulu Star Bulletin newspaper.

After coming to Alexandria she was one of the early artists assisting with the bicentennial celebrations and helping with the transformation of the Torpedo Factory into the Art Center.  Working there and in Pietrasanta, Italy, for the past 37 years, she has contributed to the international reputation the Center enjoys.  She has also made many contributions to the Center’s role in Alexandria’s society, one being the representative of the Art Center on the Historic Alexandria Resources Commission for several years (two as its chairperson), others related to art education in Alexandria schools.

More About the Series
This series of monthly talks is sponsored by the Torpedo Factory Artists’ Association, the Alexandria Archaeological Commission, and the Morrison House Hotel. The talks take place on the first Tuesday of each month. Cocktails will be available for purchase through The Grille at Morrison House Hotel, and dinner reservations can be made for guests who would like to continue their experience following the event.

About Morrison House
The Morrison House, a Kimpton Hotel, is an elegant boutique hotel located in the heart of Old Town, Alexandria.  Named an outstanding hotel on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2008 Gold List, the hotel exhibits the romance of Europe and the charm of Early America through its decorative federalist-style reproductions. The architecture blends into the historic surrounding of Alexandria, while its warmly lit rooms, soft music, and outstanding cuisine define an experience that is graceful and effortless. The AAA Four Diamond property also features The Grille, an intimate restaurant that serves a menu of relaxed American fine dining. The hotel is located at 116 South Alfred Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 838-8000.