What inspired you to create art and become an artist? (events, feelings, experiences...)
From the first moment I picked up a paintbrush, I realized that colors had a power that went beyond mere aesthetics: they formed a true language. Each brushstroke allowed me to communicate emotions that words often struggle to express. My early experiences with colors and shapes were not only a source of visual pleasure; they helped me understand the world around me.
The challenges I have faced, whether personal or related to larger societal issues, have fueled my creativity. I have come to understand that converting my emotions into art offers a therapeutic outlet, a way to navigate the complexities of life, and a way to confront my fears and hopes. Each work I have created has become a chapter in my story, an expression of my inner turmoil.
What is your artistic background, the techniques and subjects you have experimented with to date?
As an artist, my multicultural heritage and personal experiences deeply influence my vision. Through my dynamic and interactive creations, I address themes of identity, resilience and feminine strength. I invite viewers to interact with my art and reflect on their own complexities and connections.
Although I have no formal art training, I have participated in many workshops and masterclasses, both online and in person. I have chosen to move away from traditional academic paths to preserve my raw and authentic style. Throughout my artistic journey, I have experimented with various mediums, focusing mainly on oil and acrylic painting, while sometimes incorporating watercolor and oil pastels. My works often feature women, who occupy a central place in my exploration, but I also explore abstraction, floral and natural compositions, as well as still lifes, without limiting myself to a specific theme.
What are the 3 aspects that differentiate you from other artists, making your work unique?
My work reflects my multicultural heritage (French, Russian, Kazakh) by exploring femininity, women's empowerment and identity through innovative and metamodern artistic expressions.
Where does your inspiration come from?
In addition to my personal experiences (divorce, relationships, the death of my grandmother, family estrangement) that influence my artistic vision, I also draw inspiration from my rich and varied culture. Each human experience fuels my creativity. In addition, the works of other artists also inspire me, because I firmly believe that we all share a symbiotic relationship with our ideas.
What is your artistic approach? What visions, sensations or feelings do you want to evoke in the viewer?
My artistic approach blends my multicultural heritage and personal experiences to explore themes such as identity, resilience and women's empowerment. Through my interactive series "Women", I challenge traditional gender roles and stimulate dialogue, fostering solidarity among women and engaging viewers in broader human experiences.
I want my art to evoke a range of emotions, leading viewers to reflect on their own journeys while celebrating resilience, hope, and the richness of diversity. Through my artistic voice, I want to create a space for connection and empathy, so that my work resonates deeply with contemporary discussions about identity and community.
What is the process of creating your works? Spontaneous or with a long preparatory process (technique, inspiration from art classics or other)?
My creative journey begins with an idea that slowly emerges in my mind and that I aspire to share. I start by gathering references to enrich this idea. When I finally pick up my brushes, the magic really happens: my sketches, the materials and these inspirations combine on the canvas, creating an alchemy between reflection, spontaneity and intuition.
Do you use a particular working technique? If so, can you explain it?
I enjoy mixing different mediums, such as applying oil paint over a layer of acrylic. This gives me the freedom to fully express myself with oil pastels. Additionally, I enjoy incorporating acrylic paints to enhance my watercolor creations.
Are there any innovative aspects in your work? Can you tell us what they are?
I believe that my art reveals a deep understanding of identity, emotion, and cultural narratives. My art is dynamic and engaging, not only drawing on my own experiences, but also prompting reflection, discussion, and empowerment for a diverse audience. As my artistic approach evolves, I welcome new challenges and themes that illustrate the complexities of contemporary life, while continually seeking innovative ways to express these complex realities.
Do you have a format or medium that you are most comfortable with? If so, why?
I work with both canvas and paper, but I particularly like to use heavy-weight professional paper in larger formats (50 x 65 cm). For my expressive compositions, which often mix various artistic styles such as expressionism, abstract and art brut, this medium is perfect because it allows me to easily build up layers.
Where do you produce your works? At home, in a shared studio or in your own studio? And in this space, how do you organize your creative work?
Unfortunately, I don't have a dedicated studio; I work from my living room instead. This makes painting a little more difficult, as I have to take precautions to protect the walls and floor. Nevertheless, nothing stops me from creating.
Does your job require you to travel to meet new collectors, for fairs or exhibitions? If so, what does it bring you?
I showcase my artwork whenever the opportunity arises, which allows me to interact with viewers and other art enthusiasts. However, at this stage of my artistic career, my priority is to exhibit my work online, as I strongly believe that this approach allows me to connect with a wider global audience.
How do you imagine the evolution of your work and your career as an artist in the future?
I see the evolution of my artistic career as a dynamic journey influenced by various factors including audience engagement, artistic exploration, personal growth and industry trends.
What is the theme, style or technique of your latest artistic production?
The subject of my latest creation is "Women", a theme that I am currently exploring and wish to explore further. I have developed a series of works called "The Link", in which I explore the connections and bonds that unite women, highlighting their strength, courage, and the support and understanding they show each other. This collection is inspired by the authentic traditional values passed down by my parents, values focused on sincere relationships, which seem increasingly rare in our world today.
Can you tell us about your most important exhibition experience?
In 2022 and 2023, I presented two exhibitions that focused on themes that are close to my heart. The first theme addresses the urgent call for environmental action, powerfully expressed through my composition “Save the Planet,” which highlights the fragility of our Earth. The second theme, featured in the “Ode to Women” campaign, aims to raise awareness and foster resilience within our communities, celebrating the strength of women in their fight against breast cancer.
If you could create a famous work in the history of art, which one would you choose? And why?
For me, this iconic work is undoubtedly Van Gogh's "Sunflowers" because it embodies my identity, my perspective and my ability to convey joy and beauty through art with vibrant colors and dynamic brushstrokes.
If you could invite any famous artist (dead or alive) to dinner, who would it be? How would you suggest they spend the evening?
Without a doubt, I would choose Vincent van Gogh. I would invite him to the restaurant in Arles that he cherished for its light and vibrant blue skies. Our conversation would revolve around art, during which I would express my admiration for his immense talent and the devotion he puts into his work. Furthermore, I would propose the idea of creating the artist community he always envisioned, exploring the support systems artists need and how they can uplift each other.
Olimpia Gaia Martinelli
