"I am living in a wonderfully supportive paradise, where my own child was born and raised."

Maria Pilato, better known as Mariella, was born in southern Italy near Napoli. She graduated from the Academia di Belle Arti in 1982 and, choosing to take some time out, Mariella started on what was to become a tour of the world, eventually arriving in Bali in 1994. She settled here, where she's been designing and creating jewelry.

"The mutual support that I experience here, from those who have become my extended family, their trust and the sense of empowerment I gain from them, has helped me realize my dreams. I have a friend and colleague ...

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