Interview with Marcello Muiesan
How has your experience in different fields like football, military service, and the culinary influenced your approach to painting and graphic design?
My experience across varied fields such as football, military service, and culinary arts has profoundly influenced my approach to painting and graphic design. Working in diverse fields, even those unrelated to my primary occupation has significantly broadened my perspective. This has facilitated meaningful connections with individuals from disparate backgrounds and cultivated a meticulous eye for detail, crucial in driving my creativity. Furthermore, this multifaceted experience has allowed me to perceive the world from different vantage points, enabling me to capture its intrinsic beauty in my artistic pursuits.
Football, for instance, not only contributed to a healthier lifestyle but also honed my leadership skills, which have proven instrumental in effectively managing others. My military service instilled within me discipline and organizational prowess, shaping my keen attention to detail and strong work ethic. Additionally, my foray into the culinary world further enriched my ability to appreciate detail and precision, complementing my approach to painting and graphic design.
Consequently, my current artistic approach is a harmonious synthesis of the invaluable lessons learned from these diverse experiences, reflecting a unique blend of discipline, creativity, and an innate appreciation for the intricacies of the world around me.
Could you describe your creative process when integrating culinary techniques into your painting? How do you balance these seemingly disparate forms of art?
When integrating culinary techniques into my painting, my creative process mirrors the development of a new dish. Much like starting with the main ingredients for a dish, choosing the surface to paint is akin to selecting the core element for painting. In both art forms, it's not just about balancing flavours; it's about synchronizing colours, ensuring the right textures, and utilizing purposeful shapes, utensils, and presentation. The colours in the painting have to be in harmony, and the textures, much like in cooking, have to be just right. Even the choice of utensils to apply the colours has a significant role.
I often incorporate cooking utensils into my painting process to recreate specific textures and depths, akin to how one would in culinary arts. This allows me to add layers and dimension, ensuring that my paintings have the same depth and richness as a well-crafted dish. Just as I never create a flat dish, I avoid creating flat paintings. The goal is to bring out a multi-dimensional experience in both art and cuisine. The only discernible difference between creating a piece of art and a dish is the aspect of taste, which is exclusive to the culinary world but absent in traditional paintings, unless, of course, it's an edible piece of art, which is a field I’m willing to explore in the future.
Could you describe your creative process? How do you approach the conception and development of a new piece of art?
My creative process is a meticulous and emotive journey, beginning with the selection of the canvas size, typically favouring a square format for its inherent symmetry and aesthetic perfection. Subsequently, I embark on a deliberate selection of the colours that will serve as the cornerstone of the artwork, tailored to encapsulate the emotional essence and thematic depth I seek to convey.
Depending on the series I am working on, I apply a method and technique that I have developed and nurtured, purposefully safeguarding its uniqueness to maintain the distinctiveness of my artistic style. With minimal external control, the process evolves organically, often channelling a profound expression of my prevailing feelings and emotions as I immerse myself in the act of creation.
Rooted in a profound wellspring of emotions and trauma, the majority of my art serves as poignant reflections of my innermost sentiments. When enveloped by feelings of melancholy and despondency, my paintings naturally take on darker tones, mirroring the depth of my emotional landscape. Conversely, periods of jubilation and vitality are mirrored in vivacious and bright hues, evoking a sense of vibrancy and positivity.
The articulation of my emotional journey finds poignant and captivating expression in the various series of my work. For instance, the "Heart and Soul" series encapsulates the potent emotions following a breakup, revealing themes of pain, fortitude, resilience, and the desire to forge ahead. In contrast, the "Fantasy" series embodies joyful and colourful compositions, while subtly reflecting the emotional complexity brought about by significant life events such as my cancer diagnosis, offering a multifaceted and courageous perspective. Similarly, the "Trapped Inside My Mind" series serves as a visual representation of my emotional state upon discovering the inefficiency of my therapy, elevating the significance of emotions in informing the resulting artwork.
This poignant correlation between my emotional state and the resultant artwork serves as a testament to the profound influence that feelings and emotions hold over my creative process, ushering forth compositions that resonate with poignant authenticity, and inviting viewers to engage profoundly with the intricacies of the human experience.
How has your artistic style evolved from your early days as an artist to now, and what key experiences have driven this evolution?
My artistic journey began in 2021, a period marked by an intense emotional void left by the loss of the greatest love of my life. This profound feeling propelled me to create powerful and deep paintings. Over time, I endeavoured to infuse a bit more brightness into my works, making them more commercially viable. This evolution involved experimenting with colours, adding layers, and discovering and exploring the use of different tools and utensils. For instance, in my latest paintings, I've been using a wire metal mesh to create a specific pattern.
I'm continually seeking new ways to create even more incredible textures, which is the cornerstone of my work. As the breakup with the love of my life was the catalyst that ignited my painting journey, an old friend who works in the art world played a pivotal role as my mentor. My illness too had a key role, as it led me to the urge to create, to leave something behind.
My illness doesn't allow me to think too much ahead and makes me concentrate on what's important and makes me feel good, like cooking and painting. This eagerness to discover, and create, is synonymous with living. In summary, my artistic style has evolved from a period of intense emotional turmoil to a more vibrant and explorative phase. This transformation has been driven by key experiences such as the mentorship of a dear friend, the impact of my illness, and the innate human desire to discover, create, and live life to the fullest.
How did the process of painting help you cope with the emotional challenges of the pandemic and the end of a significant relationship? Can you describe how these experiences influenced the themes or styles in your artwork?
The process of painting, along with cooking, has been incredibly therapeutic for me, providing a much-needed respite from the stressors of life. For me, engaging in these creative pursuits is akin to stepping into a different world, a world that I've carved out for myself, one that is devoid of negativity, problems, and the stress that accompanies them.
Cooking and painting serve as my happy island, a sanctuary where I can truly be myself, free from the constraints and expectations of the outside world. I can immerse myself in these activities for hours on end, much like when I was a child, lost in the joy of drawing for hours on a corner, oblivious to the turmoil of my parents' divorce.
My artwork is a reflection of my personal trauma and life experiences. These experiences often manifest themselves in the themes and styles that I employ in my paintings. From the end of a significant relationship (2021 painting: "Heartbroken"), my ability to rise after a fall (2021 painting: "Falling"), the diagnosis of my illness (2022 painting: "The evil, the brave and the coward"), the overthinking that ensued after discovering that my therapy wasn't working anymore (2023 painting: "Spinning"), and much more, each of these life events have left an indelible mark on my artistic journey.
You've had several career shifts, from sports to the military, entrepreneurship, and art. What motivated these changes, and how have they shaped your identity as an artist?
All these career shifts were driven by various reasons, particularly at the outset. I ended my football career due to a knee injury. I ventured into the military because it was still compulsory for males in Italy during the 90s. I relocated to London to attend graphic design courses at Saint Martin's School, and I invested in shares of a newly registered graphic design agency. However, I departed from this venture after two years, realizing that I would never be able to make a significant difference there.
As a natural-born leader, not a follower, I transitioned into the hospitality sector (I was already working as a waiter when I moved to London to pay my bills while studying). This led me to become the manager of several fine-dining restaurants. Subsequently, I became a sommelier, opened my own company, and I was in charge of my life. In all these different careers, I've been able to apply my creativity to various subjects, which has helped me to think outside the box and become a problem solver.
All these career shifts have pushed my creativity in different directions, and I believe that this has helped me to avoid being confined to a single artistic theme, thereby broadening my artistic identity.
Despite your diagnosis of melanoma in 2022, you continued to create and exhibit your art. How did you maintain your determination and motivation during this difficult time, and what does participating in these exhibitions mean to you personally and professionally?
In the initial phase, accepting the diagnosis and undergoing treatment was undeniably challenging, especially in the first few months. However, it was during this time that I discovered my inner strength and realized that I refuse to let the illness define me. My determination and motivation were fuelled by a profound sense of urgency. I grappled with the uncertainty of how long I would be able to continue pursuing my passions such as painting and cooking. This heightened awareness prompted me to act swiftly, leaving no room for procrastination. I knew that if I didn't act fast, I might lose the ability to engage in the activities that brought me joy and fulfilment.
During the difficult days, painting gave me a sense of purpose. I don't have children, so for me, my art serves as my legacy, something that I will leave behind when I'm gone. When I initially started painting, it was purely for my solace, and the thought of participating in exhibitions never crossed my mind. However, a close friend of mine, an art consultant, recognized my talent after seeing my initial works. His encouragement spurred me to continue creating. It's been a few years since then, and I have produced over 40 artworks and participated in multiple exhibitions, even selling my first paintings. This achievement has filled me with pride and further fuelled my determination to battle against cancer. I have too much creativity to express, and it would be a disservice to stop too soon. For me, my best work is always the next painting, and this unyielding drive has been instrumental in my ability to persevere during such challenging times.
Are there any particular moments or entries in your diary that you found particularly impactful or transformative for your own journey? How do you anticipate readers will respond to your diary, and what kind of impact do you hope it will have on their lives?
One profoundly impactful moment from my diary that stands out is when my oldest friends came to visit me. Their unwavering support acted as a powerful affirmation of love and strength, igniting within me a renewed determination to fight against my illness. Their visit served as a poignant reminder of the meaningful connections that anchor us in times of adversity, inspiring me to persevere and not disappoint them with an untimely departure from this life. Another significant turning point was the beginning of 2023 and the arrival of spring, a season that witnessed a remarkable resurgence of hope and will to live within me, instilling a newfound sense of purpose and resolve.
My diary initially served as a personal outlet to unburden myself of the stress and fear induced by illness; however, it evolved into a chronicle of my transformation from fear and depression to strength, determination, and a fervent will to live. Witnessing this evolution, I realized that my experiences could potentially offer solace and support to others facing similar struggles. This realization prompted my decision to publish the diary, with the hope that it would resonate with readers in profound and transformative ways.
Anticipating the reader's response, I hope that my diary will serve as a source of empowerment and inspiration, reminding individuals that they are not defined by illness and that they are still capable of achieving greatness. I aim to impart the message that our physical limitations do not determine our worth, and it is our mindset and resilience that ultimately shape our experiences. I aspire for my readers to glean a sense of inner strength, seize each moment as if it were the last, and cultivate gratitude for the blessings in their lives. Ultimately, I aim to instil the belief that despite adversity, every individual possesses the potential to shape their narrative and find joy and fulfilment, offering a hopeful and transformative perspective on navigating life's challenges.
In your experience, how do culinary arts and visual arts intersect, and what unique perspectives does this intersection bring to your work?
The intersection of culinary arts and visual arts offers a unique perspective that enriches my creative work. Both disciplines emphasize the importance of colour, texture, and presentation. In the culinary world, the arrangement of ingredients on a plate, the play of colours, and the layering of textures are all vital aspects, as well as the taste of course. Similarly, in visual arts, these elements play a crucial role in creating depth, richness, and visual appeal in a painting.
The use of different utensils and tools in the culinary world to create specific textures and patterns greatly influences my approach to painting. This crossover allows me to experiment with unconventional painting techniques, utilizing kitchen tools to apply paint and recreate the depth and texture found in food. This unique perspective brings a refreshing and innovative dimension to my work, fostering a harmonious blend of culinary-inspired textures and visually striking compositions.
Furthermore, the emotional and sensory experiences evoked by both culinary and visual arts intersect profoundly. Just as a well-prepared dish can evoke specific emotions and memories, my paintings, infused with themes derived from personal experiences, resonate with viewers on an emotional level. This intersection allows me to create art that provides not only a visual experience but also an emotional and sensory one, enriching the depth and resonance of my work.
Looking forward, what are your aspirations for the future in terms of your artistic career, and are there any new mediums or techniques you are eager to explore?
Looking ahead, my artistic aspirations are centred around breaking new ground, expanding my creative repertoire, and leaving a lasting legacy through my work. I am deeply committed to creating large-scale artwork to fully express the depth and breadth of my creativity. The profound and commanding nature of large pieces imbues them with a captivating presence, making them an ideal medium for evoking profound emotions and making a lasting impact. Moreover, my ambition includes securing representation in a world-renowned gallery to elevate my artistic platform and share my work with a global audience. The prospect of showcasing my creations in such a prestigious setting holds immense potential for reaching a broader and more diverse audience, thereby amplifying the impact of my art.
In addition to my artistic endeavours, I am fervently drawn to the idea of writing one or two more books that centre on my experiences with illness and the unwavering determination to overcome it. These books would serve as a source of motivation and inspiration for individuals facing similar challenges, offering insights, resilience, and empowerment. By sharing my journey and the lessons learned, I hope to provide solace, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity to those navigating similar paths.
Ultimately, my aspirations for the future of my artistic career are deeply rooted in a commitment to self-expression, resilience, and using creativity to inspire and uplift others. Through large-scale artwork, representation in a world-renowned gallery, and the authoring of motivational books, I seek to weave a rich and enduring tapestry of creative endeavours that leave an indelible impact on the world and serve as a source of hope, strength, and artistic enrichment for generations to come.
