What inspired you to create art and become an artist? (events, feelings, experiences...)
The exposure to Dalí's works at the age of 5 produced a before and after in my consciousness. The fascination with Dali's images opened the doors of freedom for me, even though I had already discovered the possibility of communicating through drawing.
What is your artistic background, the techniques and subjects you have experimented with so far?
I am a self-taught artist, I have been trained by observing the works of established artists, not necessarily Surrealists, such as Raphael, Botticelli, Michelangelo and other contemporaries such as Edward Hopper. Before I started working with color, I worked in ink, but when I was encouraged to switch to oil, I had to learn all the techniques from scratch.
What are the 3 aspects that differentiate you from other artists, making your work unique?
Regarding the aesthetics of my works, both in the composition and in the use of color, my works contain unity and a unique style that is easily distinguishable. As for the conceptual aspect, the images are not simple juxtaposed games of opposites to mark an absurdity, but rather require the viewer a thoughtful analysis of the possible meanings of the work.
Another significant aspect of my work is the thematic unity, that is, my works often talk about issues such as death, society and its power structures, and the subjugation of the individual through these power structures.
My works are the fruit, many times, of my meditations turned into images that condense my ideas.
Where does your inspiration come from?
My images are inspired by my environment, my personal experiences, my book readings and even music.
What is your artistic approach? What visions, sensations or feelings do you want to evoke in the viewer?
My artistic approach is to arouse the viewer's curiosity, to find their own message in my works, even if this message does not coincide with my own vision, to awaken their emotions and concerns, since my works touch on universal human concerns.
What is the process of creating your works? Spontaneous or with a long preparatory process (technical, inspiration from art classics or other)?
My works are the result of long meditations on the one hand, and on the other hand of a previous study of other aspects, such as the use of color and composition, however, many times, the desired image arrives in those magical moments between the wakefulness and sleep (a method that was used by Dali). I rarely get inspired by the works of others.
Do you use a particular work technique? if so, can you explain it?
Generally, I cover the canvas with a base color, then I draw the figures with their lights and shadows paying special attention to the composition (This first base can be a grisaille or verdaccio, I let this layer dry completely. Once dry, I begin to apply thin successive layers with the colors I choose for the characters and objects.
Are there any innovative aspects in your work? Can you tell us which ones?
Sadly, the innovation in my work consists in the ability to know how to draw and paint, My works stand on their own. In these times, people want to make people believe that art can be any object that is considered as such by curators and gallery owners.
This "modern" art such as "ready-made" is unsustainable without an explanatory discourse to support it.
Do you have a format or medium that you are most comfortable with? if yes, why ?
As I have already mentioned, oil is my favorite medium because of its versatility.
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 produce my work in my house, near the "noise" next to the television and the refrigerator.
Does your work lead you to travel to meet new collectors, for fairs or exhibitions? If so, what does it bring you?
Actually, my job is quite lonely and secluded. I live in a rural area away from any urban center.
Collectors and galleries find me through social media and my website.
How do you imagine the evolution of your work and your career as an artist in the future?
The answer to this question is not that simple.
For my part, I will continue creating faithful to my canons.
It is impossible for me to predict my career because so many factors outside of my control affect it. My desire is to be known by as many collectors as possible.
What is the theme, style or technique of your latest artistic production?
Death, the leaders and their vassals.
Can you tell us about your most important exhibition experience?
My inclusion as a permanent artist in the Residence gallery, Biarritz, for the respect towards me and my works by its director françois beauxis-aussalet
If you could have created a famous work in the history of art, which one would you choose? And why ?
The Kiss by Gustav Klimt., It is simply unique, for its unique style, its composition, its colors and the feeling it conveys. No doubt for his artistic innovation.
If you could invite one famous artist (dead or alive) to dinner, who would it be? How would you suggest he spend the evening?
I would go to Leonardo da Vinci's studio (I would bring the food for dinner) I would spend the day with him watching him paint, and try to convince him to reveal the secret of the sfumato to me.
Olimpia Gaia Martinelli
