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Full Story:
 Web site design firms are usually hired to work with Business clients, or with people who have at least some experience or exposure with the on-line world, to say the least. Understanding the objectives and deploying on-line models in these cases is really straight-forward; after all this is what we do for a living. Working however with an 81-year old, with absolutely no exposure to the Internet is not only unique but also a great challenge.
This was the case with Antonio Mirizio, a truly unique figure in the artistic world and beyond, who has dedicated his life to his art.
To study one of his intricate works is to be amazed by its technical complexity. He is a master of the almost-mathematical process of accurate perspective, enlivened by a stunning and exotic blending of colour in his favourite medium, Indian inks.
Antonio was in fact the first artist to use these as painting inks. As early as the 1940’s he began to perfect this technique. Now 81, he continues to apply it with love and skill to his many depictions of the female form in movement and dance.
 His extensive portfolio of 150 pieces illustrates his diverse skill and interests, ranging from traditional landscapes in classic style to studies of the human form. His special interest is the Arabian culture, lavish feasts depicted in great detail, complete with sultans, servants, concubines, and the focus of everyone’s attention, the exotic and beautiful belly dancer. His work in progress in this genre is a massive undertaking with 77 characters. It measures 3 by 7 metres and required the construction of a glass ceiling in his studio to enable him to paint by natural light. He estimates it will take twenty years to complete this masterpiece in oils, "A Thousand and One Nights II". His first painting with this theme, completed after six years in 1981, was greeted with great acclaim by his international following.
Antonio Mirizio started drawing at the age of six in is home town of Casamassima, Bari, Italy. His remarkable gift was quickly recognized by his famous teacher, Professor Domenico Scuccimarri, Academy of Venice Gold Medal Winner, who encouraged him to pursue his studies. He has travelled the world for most of his life, seeking inspiration from different cultures, and has been widely reviewed and acclaimed by the world’s media in eight different languages. After living in England and Canada for many years, he returned to his birthplace in Italy, where his enthusiasm and dedication to his art continue undiminished.
 The web site is a celebration of the artist's life and includes a photo gallery with his art, personal photos as well as clippings from media outlets around the world. Although the artist's original art is not for sale, but rather destined for a museum, a limited number of high quality lithographs - exact copies of his work - have been made available for purchase. The web site includes an enquiry section for those who wish to enrich their private collections with a truly unique piece of art.
The project would have not been possible without the help of Antonio's restless nephew, Gino Mirizio, who has spearheaded this project as a representative of Antonio's family. Gino is a talented and successful percussionist; he performs in front of live audiences throughout N. America and Europe.
Many thanks also to COMMbits designer Laurie Stoppel, who has patiently scanned and sorted through the myriads of photographs and media articles from all around the world. Laurie has left his creative signature everywhere in this project.
Al Poullis of COMMbits has offered his expertise in web site structures, back-office connectivity and scripting, while ensuring that the overall showcase piece is consistent, easy to navigate, easy to upgrade and easy to expand in the future.
For us here at COMMbits this has been an incredible experience and a demonstration of how one can find peace through art, and dedication to his work.
Antonio's showcase is now open to the public at www.antoniomirizio.com.
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