5/5/2021: Luca Curci talks with Franca Dariol during MIXING IDENTITIES, the third appointment of CANVAS International Art Fair, at THE LINE Contemporary Art Space of London.

(extract)

What is art for you?

I believe that art is a condensed expression of the infinite, or of the divine part that is in us, which becomes matter through the artist, an individual of marked sensitivity who acts as a channel between the earth and the sky – sky intended as a space of infinite possibilities. A work of art can set off vibrations at very deep levels. It is a way to express emotions that would not otherwise be represented, such as joy, pain or anger, in all their facets. Personally, I do not appreciate “gloomy” art, it seems like throwing heavy psychic emotions on the spectators and the environment. Instead, I love art that illuminates the surrounding environment with positive emanations. We are already bombarded with bad news from the mass media. We all need a “breathing space” for our soul, this is what art gives us. Art is a space where every human being can move in full creative freedom. The more the artist acquires new inner freedoms, the more this is reflected in their artworks, making them unique and very original pieces, suggesting new ways, new atmospheres, interior and exterior, bringing new beauty into the world.

What are your thoughts while you paint? Do you have any habits or rituals while you work?

When I paint in my studio I put on my favorite background music, while when I draw psychic portraits, I light a small candle and try to put myself in a state of concentration. However, if I’m deliberately painting a theme, I keep my mind free, light and rely on the “creative flow” of that moment.

Where do you find your inspiration?

What happens in life is a constant source of inspiration! Both for good and for “bad”. Painting is an excellent way to process situations and find one’s own balance. But the real people I meet are a source of inspiration, from family members to friends, acquaintances, colleagues, teachers, eminences… each of them reflects a particular state of being. Nature, too, is always a source of inspiration and reflection. Other times, however, just by closing my eyes, images flow or colors “flash” before me and remain impressed, then the need arises to make them visible to everyone, creating an artwork.

Did your style change over the years? In which way?

My style hasn’t changed over the years, but there is a natural and spontaneous evolution in my way of using colors, materials and expressing myself.

What is the most challenging part about creating your artworks?

I have no difficulty in creating my artworks, but I don’t always have a range of all the material I need, from canvases to colors, to other important materials, nevertheless, sometimes it is really challenging to have to choose which and how much time to dedicate to them. But when I’m in full creative flow it all happens by itself.