Interview: Ilaria Ratti Salvioni
Luca Curci talks with Ilaria Ratti Salvioni during the 11th edition of LONDON CONTEMPORARY, at ELEMENTS Art Space in London.

Ilaria Ratti Salvioni, a Swiss artist born in Lugano and now living in Dubai, is a true visionary whose work transcends boundaries and captivates audiences and collectors who follow her. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes she encountered during her travels in Asia and particularly in India, Ilaria brings her paintings to life with a range of vibrant colors and fascinating imagery. She believes that emotions and harmony with the universe are essential components of creativity, infusing every brushstroke with intention and meaning.

His works range from small canvases to works up to 3 meters in size. Not only layers of colors (acrylics and oils) but also infusion of intentions and energy inspired by ancient yogic traditions, focusing particularly on Anticipation, a powerful force believed to work extraordinary miracles in people’s lives. Thus, high-frequency paintings resonate deeply in the viewers’ souls.

Featured in renowned publications such as British Vogue, Vanity Fair UK, House & Garden, and House of Coco, she has also been honored with prestigious awards including “Art Career Winner 2023” and “Leading Protagonist” at the art ceremony held in Washington DC and “Art Diamond Museum Artist” at the Diocesan Museum Francesco Gonzaga in Mantua. His latest exhibitions in New York City, Washington DC, Miami Art Basel, the San Remo Biennial, 11th London Contemporary, London Overstory and “The Future is Now” in Milan have further solidified his status as a leading player in the contemporary art world.

She also participates in projects where fashion and art merge. Two examples are the collaboration with “The Soul Club” by Ashri (www.ashri.ch) where garments were created on fabrics printed with reproductions of his works. Also worth mentioning is the project “Abstract Angels” (www.abstractangels.com) where as Creative Director she designed a line of ART Accessories.

Luca Curci – Which subject are you working on?
Ilaria Ratti – I mainly stay in the Middle East to create and deliver large commissioned artworks, which can be as wide as 3 meters, for my network of interior designers. Currently, I am also busy working on several new pieces for my upcoming solo exhibition in New York City, which is scheduled to take place in 6 months. Meanwhile, I am thrilled to be collaborating with an Italian fashion brand. It’s truly magical how art and fashion intertwine! One of my paintings, titled “Expect the Extraordinary,” has been reproduced on natural fabric using an innovative technique. As a sneak peek, we recently unveiled the first “Kimono” at a fashion event in Switzerland. Stay tuned for more exciting items coming this summer! Our focus is on creating organic and natural yoga clothes and leisurewear.

LC – How did you get to your current artistic practice?
IR – Following several years of working as a Private investigator within my family’s business, I made a significant decision to transform my life and pursue my childhood passion and hobby: ART. In 2008, I relocated to Dubai in order to be closer to Asia, specifically India. This transition provided me with numerous opportunities to explore different places and develop my unique artistic style in terms of dimensions and colors. Ever since, I have been fully dedicated to my art, despite the challenges it brings. However, the fulfilment it brings me far surpasses the satisfaction of a conventional 9 to 5 job.

LC – What issues do you intend to deal with in the future?
IR – “Issues” carries a negative connotation. I consistently strive to focus on the bright side of life. I favour EMBRACING CHALLENGES instead. I aim to blend fashion and art increasingly. Alongside a sisterhood team of dedicated friends, we are developing www.abstractangels.com where fashion, figurative, and abstract elements intertwine. This initiative is geared towards supporting young artists by allocating a significant portion of the profits to help them turn their passion into a profession.

LC – Is there an unrealised or unrealisable project, even a crazy one, that you would like to work on?
IR – Every project can be achievable, it’s just a matter of putting in the effort. If you have faith in yourself, you can accomplish anything. Speaking of dreams and still unrealised projects, let me think for a moment…. Ah yes, I imagine having one artwork displayed at the Louvre in Paris and another at MoMA New York. Jokes apart, aim high because no dream is too lofty!

LC – What are the three hashtags essential to define your poetics that you could not give up?
IR – #energy #positivity #love because all my artworks are infused with those three elements. I charge them with layers of colors but also with energy inspired by ancient yogic traditions. ANTICIPATION is a potent force believed to bring extraordinary miracles in people’s lives. Those high frequencies are felt by the viewer’s eye and soul.

LC – Where do you find your inspiration?
IR – I used to discover inspiration while journeying across the globe, with India being particularly influential. Each temple, every individual, and even animals possess captivating narratives, which I strive to convey through my artwork. Nowadays, my main source of inspiration stems from meditative experiences, where I connect with various souls and the divine, embarking on inner voyages.

LC – Your last artistic production attracted us, has the artwork presented been created for the exhibition or as a part of preexisting works?
IR – The artwork depicting “SOULMATES” was lacking in intention and details, despite having the appropriate shape and color. However, upon discovering the sustainability theme of the 11th LONDON CONTEMPORARY exhibition, I realized that it was the perfect painting to showcase in the UK. With this newfound clarity, I was able to add the necessary elements and complete the artwork.

LC – Do you agree with our vision of art and what do you think about the theme of the exhibition?
IR – I totally agree with your vision of art and the theme of the exhibition was perfect for my painting.

LC – What are your suggestions about our services? Is there something more we can provide to artists?
IR – Your team excels in providing material things, marketing, and nice locations to young artists. However, what truly sets you apart is your ability to provide them with a dream and the strength to pursue it. In this challenging aspect, you have been exceptional, supporting numerous unknown artists and giving them the opportunity to thrive.

LC – What is your idea about ITSLIQUID GROUP?
IR – I believe I already addressed this question in my previous response. I am delighted to work with you, and I believe your amazing team shares the same vision and mission. This is exactly what we, as artists, need.