Melissa Sanchez Franklin
Age
26
When were you at Princethorpe?
1995-2000
What are you doing now?
I live in Florence Italy and work as an artist. I paint every day and give private tuition and workshops. This year I co-founded ‘Art Space’ a studio building with 17 private spaces for international artists.
What was the school like in your day?
When I began in 1995 it was the first year of accepting girls at the school, I remember us being 7 in our year group. There was a great sense of community and I look back with fond memories.
How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?
Princethorpe most definitely played an important role in who I am today. It was there that I found my passion for art, under the guidance of Mr and Mrs Skiffington who ran the art department. Also, my spirituality is something that grew from my experience at Princethorpe.
What advice would you give to your teenage self?
Listen more, take all the advice you can, but always be true to yourself.
Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life?
My father once told me that you are very fortunate if you can make a career out of something you love. I have thought of that in many moments of my life. One great life changing experience was moving to Florence when I was 19 years old. I came to study classical painting, fell in love with the city, its way of life and I met my husband Ramiro.
What keeps you awake at night?
I don’t have any trouble falling asleep at night, but I am always woken up in the morning with thoughts of possible events that await me in the day.
What has been your proudest moment/greatest achievement so far?
Getting married last September, gathering our friends and family from all corners of the earth to celebrate together with us.
What’s your biggest indulgence?
Sharing dinner and a glass of wine with friends.
If you had to have one last meal, what would it be?
A good Indian curry, as it is hard to find them in Italy.
What is your favourite TV Show and why?
We don’t have a TV, but we enjoy a good movie.
If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be?
In the Channel Islands with family and painting some landscapes.
Lasting memories of Princethorpe:
Father McManus, on the first week of school, reciting my full name, family and where I lived. He knew everybody in the school. He was an amazing person.
Are you in touch with any other Old Princethorpians, if so whom?
Yes with a few, especially Rosie Davey, who is now working in New Zealand. We will always be dear friends.
