What inspired you to create works of art and to become an artist? (events, feelings, experiences...)
It was last summer, I went to the “Roses from my Garden” exhibition by Nick Knight at the Museum of Photography in Nice. Something fantastic happened. A revelation that forever changed my creative journey. That day, my eyes were captivated by the dazzling beauty of roses. I was conquered by their essence, their symbolism and the way they can be sublimated in a thousand ways.
But don't get me wrong, photographing roses is an art in itself, a challenge that I had to meet with tenacity.
The first attempts were not without difficulties, but fortunately they did not discourage me. On the contrary, they strengthened my desire to change paths. The idea germinated in me: why not make this budding passion my profession? It was crazy, a little risky financially, but so exhilarating!
So I took my courage in both hands and I started. And this is how a whole new artistic universe was born. Not just one, but actually five. First, of course, the rose, which became my muse; then I explored contemporary digital art, discovering new possibilities of expression.
But it wasn't enough. My eager spirit of exploration pushed me to create luminous stained glass windows, which inspire me deeply during my moments of introspection. And finally, I studied space art in order to dive into the depths of the universe and bring the "Skyline Futura" and "Stellar Fantasia" collections to life.
What is your artistic background, the techniques and subjects you have experimented with so far?
As a self-taught digital artist, my journey is distinguished by its atypical and unconventional character. I had no formal art education, but I have always had a passion for visual expression, and an innate desire to bring my creativity to life through various forms.
My adventure began in 2020, when I discovered the countless potentialities of digital creation. I started exploring different drawing software and applications, learning new techniques, and experimenting with many creative environments.
I also took advice from artists with whom I was able to share my work and receive constructive feedback on my creations. It allowed me to hone my skills and refine my style.
Over the months, I continued to progress and explore new paths. I learned to work with different mediums, such as digital painting and image manipulation.
I did not have the chance to benefit from an institutional or academic framework to guide me in my learning. This situation often left me confronted with myself, my challenges, my doubts and my mistakes. But I also discovered that this solitary experience had advantages.
Indeed, it allowed me to work at my own pace and at my own pace, without being constrained by a pre-established study program. I thus benefited from the freedom to choose the skills to develop according to my interests, my needs and my objectives, without being influenced by a school or a particular teacher. I was able to draw on a variety of sources of inspiration to create something personal and unique.
Faced with the obstacles I encountered, I had to find my own solutions. It forced me to explore new ways of doing things, which ultimately boosted my self-confidence and ability to innovate. This experience testifies that art knows no borders, that creativity cannot be locked in a box: each artist has his own story to express.
What are the 3 aspects that differentiate you from other artists, making your work unique?
First of all, I like to think that my "eternal dissatisfaction" side comes to support my inventiveness, it only happens very rarely that I'm happy with myself, so I'm constantly inhabited by the idea of better or otherwise. I think it's a great way to understand that doubts are not always associated with poor self-confidence but rather with a form of requirement, creative in my case.
Then, I probably stand out for my love of details and textures. I like when the lines of my works give the feeling of a visual experience that invites viewers to immerse themselves in a stimulating universe.
Finally, I think that my reserved character brings with it a lot of concentration and perseverance. I am perhaps more comfortable than others with solitude and easily immerse myself in my work without distraction. It allows me to be more productive, faster too.
Where does your inspiration come from?
If I knew it, I can assure you that I would lock it in a box in order to be certain of never losing it! In reality, living in the south, precisely, in the dynamic heart of the Metropolis of Nice, in the small fishing village of Cros-de-Cagnes is an infinite source of inspiration. Because if I essentially create imaginary universes, I love the idea of being anchored in a territory that carries me...
What is your artistic approach? What visions, sensations or feelings do you want to evoke in the viewer?
I think I can say that I seek above all to create an atmosphere and emotions. It is for this reason that I use rather "pop" colors, lights and particular textures. I hope in this way that the public will be surprised by what I have to present to them. More generally, the goal is above all to initiate a deep connection with space and its immensity.
What is the process of creating your works? Spontaneous or with a long preparatory process (technical, inspiration from art classics or other)?
Until now, it never happened to me to mature a project of long weeks or long months. As a rule, things come naturally, almost without warning. Whether I'm busy doing the dishes, on the road, or in the shower, the idea arises, and I hasten to jot it down in a small notebook or in the notes of my telephone, at the first opportunity. who shows up.
Do you have a format or medium that you are most comfortable with? if yes, why ?
I started with the 4:3 format before settling on the 1:1 format. However, I must admit that I greatly appreciate the 16:9 format, it allows me to give free rein to my creativity.
Where do you produce your works? At home, in a shared workshop or in your own workshop?
This question alone represents the main advantage of my profession. I can produce my works anywhere as long as I have an internet connection and my bag with my equipment.
Does your work lead you to travel to meet new collectors, for fairs or exhibitions? If so, what does it bring you?
I haven't had the opportunity to travel much in my life, I prioritized the savings of many years in anticipation of the purchase of a small apartment in Cagnes-sur-Mer. But I plan to soon enjoy life differently now that I have a roof over my head of my own. However, as I explained to you, I already live in a sector that is very buoyant for my imagination!
How do you imagine the evolution of your work and your career as an artist in the future?
It's a pretty uncertain environment in essence, and I'm fully aware of that. If my works are popular today, maybe it will be different tomorrow. I think I can say that I have a rather hard-working side that allows me to hope to be rewarded for my efforts.
What is the theme, style or technique of your latest artistic production?
Lately, my mind has been in love with a creative impulse that finds its source in the Hotel Negresco, an emblematic place dear to my heart. I immersed myself in the enigmatic universe of surrealism with great enthusiasm.
Can you tell us about your most important exhibition experience?
Better than a temporary exhibition, a whole museum! I was immediately seduced by the inventiveness of Marc Chagall when I came to Nice in the beautiful districts of Cimiez. This Nice gallery really has something. From the moment I walked through its doors, I was struck by a special atmosphere; I felt almost enveloped by some form of aura with all that light! His paintings, of a striking poetry, reveal very colorful compositions, symbols and so many daydreams! Figures float, shapes change and stories unfold… I think that after Nick Knight's “Roses from my Garden”, Chagall comes immediately in second place.
If you could have created a famous work in the history of art, which one would you choose? And why ?
Choosing a single work would be complicated for me. But I can tell you that I would very much have liked to have had the talent of Auguste Renoir, in particular his female nudes which occupy a special place in my mind. I find that his paintings capture beauty by inevitably inviting the viewer into a sensual atmosphere of grace and delicacy.
If you could invite one famous artist (dead or alive) to dinner, who would it be? How would you suggest he spend the evening?
No doubt Nick Knight, I owe him so much in my career. However, I would prefer that the invitation come from him! It's not very polite, but it would allow me to admire the rose garden of his property in London!
Olimpia Gaia Martinelli
