S3 Ep.11 - From the UK to the Canals of Venice building boats
In this evocative episode of Venice Talks, Monica speaks to Laura Pritchard, a British-born artisan who swapped the foggy landscapes of the UK for the light and tides of Venice. Today, Laura is one of the few women working as a maestra d’ascia, a traditional boatbuilder shaping the iconic vessels of the lagoon with age-old tools and timeless care.
Together, they talk about what it means to embrace an ancient craft in a foreign land, how wood and water can become a language of belonging, and the quiet revolution of carving one’s place—literally and metaphorically—in a deeply rooted tradition.
It’s a story of reinvention, resilience, and reverence for Venice’s maritime soul.
Laura’s journey from the UK to Venice:
- beginnings, motives, transformation
- what it means to be a maestro d’ascia in a city built on water
- gender and tradition: carving out space in a male-dominated craft
- the relationship between wood, water, and identity
- how craftsmanship bridges cultures and generations
✨ Credits:
Hosted by Monica Cesarato
Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media
Guest: Laura Pritchard
📢 Listen & Subscribe
If you love stories of transformation, tradition, and the quiet power of craft, this episode is for you.
🎧 Tune in to Venice Talks on your favorite podcast platform—Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google, or wherever you listen.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a voice from the lagoon!
If you are enjoying Venice Talks Podcast please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me continue to deliver amazing stories about the people, places, and artisans that are the beating heart of Venice. Be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Click the Blue Follow Now button at the top of the page!
If you’re in Venice (or planning a visit) and want to see the “real” Venice, drop me a note here.
