POP SURREALIST GIULIA CARUSO
Based in Ibiza the artist, originally Italian, is known for her colourful pop portraits inspired by women and the magical colours of sunset on the island. She has previously worked in fashion and independent films, but it was in 2010 she took the decision to move to Ibiza with her husband and children, and realize her calling as an artist.
Giulia your greatest inspirations or influences?
My work is inspired and born from the female energies of Ibiza. My color palette is taken from the sunsets of the island: pink, lilac, light blue, and purple. I am inspired by the power of women and female empowerment.
My background is in fashion, so fabrics are for me are a great source of inspiration. I am inspired by fashion trends, which I find from editorials past, as well as fashion history. I also work with video and film, so truthfully i am inspired by culture in general. Over the past few years, I feel obsessed by visual anthropology, and am influenced by people.
Tell us a bit about your creative process?
I work on two levels. I do my own production or I work on commission-
When I do my own work for galleries or exhibitions I choose a different model. The paintings often look "Imperfect" as that is where all the creativity and the magic begins for me. I am free to use any inspiration or go down any path I choose. It is always related to the female universe. I want to empower the women and tell their story.
Then for a commission I ask for details from the client. Pictures, mood board, and a letter from someone who loves them. Then I interpret their story and their world. The client will see the painting only when they get it. I never let anyone interfere with my creative process as that could effect my creativity. That moment is sacred.
How has this year changed your creativity or how you see the world changing moving forward?
My career all began with Covid. I am vary grateful for the pandemic as it made me look even more into my interior world. I believe we are powerful creatures and we are able to create in any situation. It is always a matter of choice.
Do you think the art world needs changing, if so how could it improve?
The art world is exploding more than ever and I believe that for us creatives there are more and more opportunities every day. The fashion world is including and relying on art now like never before. I strongly believe that things flow how they must. Many artists feel stuck to their galleries,, or unable to weave between their creative side and commercial. As artists, and human beings, we have many choices in order to get it right, but this depends on us. When something comes from the heart and is pure, the message will arrive, and there will be an audience for good art! Sky is the limit.
Who do you consider to be an icon of our time?
For me someone who is fighting and trying to change the world. Oprah for example.
What does wellbeing mean to you?
Wellbeing for me is the ability to be grateful for what I have without letting my thoughts and worries take over my day. It is also being able to live the life I want in the place I love, feeling grateful every morning when I come into the studio and I close my door. Thats when magic happens.
