What inspired you to create art and become an artist? (Events, feelings, experiences...).
I was raised in a house of artists. I spent my childhood and teenage years in my parents' studios, at gallery exhibitions or in the hallways of art academies. All this accustomed me to perceive and create art as something natural. My parents were my first and most important inspiration.
What is your artistic background, techniques and subjects you have experimented with so far?
I am a graduate of an art high school and an art academy. I was interested in photography, drawing, painting, fine art printmaking and applied graphics. To this day, I still work as a graphic designer.
What are the 3 aspects that set you apart from other artists, making your works unique?
I am not able to answer this question. I have never thought about it. I paint for pleasure.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get my inspiration from everyday life. From the world around me.
What is your artistic approach? What visions, sensations or feelings do you want to evoke in the viewer?
I am not looking for important social or political themes. I like simplicity. I much prefer a feeling - like it or not. I don't propose or demand complex sensations from the viewer. Certainly, my paintings are heavily influenced by graphic design which I deal with every day, I always try to keep my design simple and uncomplicated.
What is the process of creating your works? Spontaneous or with a long preparation process (technical, inspired by art classics or others)?
The process of creating my works is also simple. I always start with sketches on paper. Then I choose one and transfer it to canvas. While painting, I allow myself some freedom, I no longer strictly stick to the original sketch. During the work there is a kind of discussion between me and the painting. I never know what the final result will be.
Do you use a specific working technique? if so, can you explain it?
Ordinary canvas. Ordinary paints. Ordinary spatulas and brushes.
Are there any innovative aspects in your work? Can you tell us which ones?
My impression is that I am a conservative. Why complicate something as simple and perfect as a painting on canvas?
Do you have a format or medium you feel most comfortable with? If so, why?
I like acrylic paints but love oil paints. I chose acrylic paints for my work, however, because of .... drying time. I don't have that much patience and time in my daily life to use oil paints. Sometimes I feel bad about it.
Where do you produce your works? At home, in a shared workshop or in your own workshop? And in this space, how do you organize your creative work?
I am fortunate to have a small studio in my home in the attic. A room dedicated only to me, an easel and paints.
Does your work drive you to travel to meet new collectors, to fairs, exhibitions? If so, what does it give you?
I really enjoy seeing exhibitions. Whenever I can, I always go into any museum where I can see works of art. I definitely prefer to see ancient art. I can be alone with the painting and I don't have to read "what the artist had in mind" because the painting itself can speak to the viewer.
How do you envision the evolution of your work and career as an artist in the future?
Observing how the world is today, I don't think about my career as an artist. I feel that the art world has stood on its head. Too many works aspire to be works of art without deserving it in any way. Of course... it would be great if I could make a living just by selling paintings. Unfortunately, I realize that this is not very realistic.
What is the theme, style or technique of your latest art production?
I'm not changing anything for now. I'm having fun while painting.
Can you tell us about your most important exhibition experience?
I will have my first exhibition in 2024. I hope the gallery won't change its mind.
If you could create a famous work in art history, which one would you choose? And why ?
It's pointless, after all, someone has already created it. Why do it again? Although I must confess to painting one of Vermeer's paintings, but I haven't been able to finish it for a few years.
If you could invite one famous artist (living or dead) to dinner, who would it be? How would you propose to spend the evening with him or her?
I probably won't be original. I would invite Picasso. Spent time talking while drinking wine. Although I would prefer stronger alcohol ;)
Olimpia Gaia Martinelli
