For the Italy collection, I wanted to partner with an artist in a residency program that would see us collaborate on designing a print.
It was June 2022 – a time when Italy had well and truly reopened her doors and embraced the world once more.
Almost a year had passed since I embarked on my journey through Italy, seeking inspiration for my upcoming collection. During that exploration, I delved into Italy's intricate layers, rekindling my love for the country.
This time, however, I was headed to a Noto, a sun-drenched town in Sicily, to film a small (but fabulous) part in the Emmy Award winning series The White Lotus.
Little did I know that this visit would lead to an unexpected encounter with Alessandro Florio, the artist behind our Amore Mio Artist in Residence collaboration.
Released just last week, the CAMILLA Artist in Residence: Alessandro Florio collection is one that allows fashion and art to flawlessly coexist. The limited-edition print is reimagined into keepsake CAMILLA silhouettes designed to be cherished and passed down generation to generation, each bearing the marriage of artistic minds.
It’s just as important for me to share this collection with you as it is to share the story of Alessandro and his approach to his art. So, without further ado, meet our Artist in Residence: Alessandro Florio.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I was born in Taormina in Sicily. I am really proud of my Sicilian roots, and I still live [in] this magical place today with my family. It feels so harmonious here – it is home to ancient history that’s been kissed by the sun.
We're curious to hear about your first interactions with art - what inspired you to pursue art yourself?
Tattooing projected me towards art. I had been a tattooist for quite some time; however, my creative spirit was ushering me to evolve into a new chapter. I found inspiration in large format painting that honours my original medium and how I wish to express myself.
Your career started with tattooing which then moved into painting. Is there a similarity in inspiration when you have created works in both mediums?
I’ve always had the same approach tattooing, it’s very much part of who I am. Pictorially, tattooing has given me discipline and commitment – all of which I now use within my approach to painting.
Your work reflects elements that recall your Sicilian roots – why is this so important to you?
I am very attached to the land I grew up on and call home now. I find it sacred and rich. It is necessary for me to give a new interpretation of Sicily through my paintings.
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Can you share the meaning behind the recurring characters or motifs you use in your artworks?
I really don't consider myself a conceptual painter, nor do I want to convey a message of protest. These elements in my works are ones that simply stimulate me.
What are the most important elements in the interaction between the viewer and your art?
Colour and composition always win.
There are many synergies between your approach to art and that of Camilla’s, so a collaboration feels natural. What was it like to extend your medium to partner with a fashion brand?
It was amazing. The collaboration offers a partnership between art and fashion – and it’s been exciting to watch the designs progress. Camilla is truly explosive – she represents in fashion what I see to represent in painting.
The CAMILLA Artist in Residence: Alessandro Florio collection is now available for purchase worldwide on CAMILLA.com, CAMILLA boutiques, as well as in selected wholesale partners worldwide.
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