About our Executive Director:

Gigi Coulson is a sociologist with a Master’s degree specializing in sociocultural anthropology, with focused expertise in historical dress, apothecaries, daily life, literature, games, and cosmetics. For over fifteen years, she has conducted sustained archival research on the women of Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, and the Veneto, working in regional archives, libraries, and museums to better understand the lived realities of medieval and Renaissance Italian women.

Her scholarship includes a published translation of 15th-century cosmetic and medicinal recipes authored by Caterina Sforza, as well as presentations of original research at the International Congress on Medieval Studies. She has participated in exclusive 14th-century historical reenactments in Emilia-Romagna, integrating embodied practice with documentary study to deepen her understanding of material culture.

Grounded in long-term research and sustained relationships in Italy, Dott.ssa Coulson approaches Italian history with humility, rigor, and deep respect for regional identity and cultural continuity. She serves as a cultural bridge between American historical costumers and Italian scholars, institutions, and heritage sites — offering thoughtfully curated educational journeys to north-central Italy that center accuracy, context, and cross-cultural understanding.

Through her work with Costumers of Color, she is committed to expanding access to Italian cultural heritage while honoring the communities who safeguard it.

Click below to download Gigi’s Media Kit: