Antonella Avataneo is a tiny lady with blue eyes who started drawing since she was very little, under the guiding light of the renowned French illustrator, Raymond Peynet.

Her style, however, has evolved during the years, becoming rather abstract and informal. She draws her inspiration from the buildings and metropolises of the world, ranging from NYC’s skyscrapers to the desert’s Casbahs. Her paintings contain no human figures but are filled with traces of concrete, mortar and plaster, which she melts with the painting’s canvas through the use of carpenter’s tools.

I had the opportunity of meeting her last week, as she was participating at an art exhibition in the beautiful old barracks in Saluzzo, Italy. Here’s a glimpse into her fascinating world…

How did you develop your interest and skills in painting?

Well, I’ve surely had the chance to have some great teachers, such as Peynet, Pontecorvo and Carena, but I have to admit that I have not followed a traditional path. I studied Art and Painting in high school, but then, during my university years, I studied Architecture and then subsequently Art History.

Some years ago, I started selling antiquities in the boutique I co-owned with my brother. But at some point, I decided that it was about time to turn back to painting, and so I did. What I’ve been doing lately is in fact completely related to the art world: I’ve improved my style and skills, I’ve participated at several exhibitions and contests; I’ve started teaching art to kids and organized several lessons of art-therapy.

How do you choose your paintings’ titles?

I have divided all my works into four categories: Ipotesi di paesaggio, Inis Vitrin, Arabeschi and Apparizioni. They are supposed to work as definitions to the different kinds of cities I’ve been inspired by, from the utopist to the postmodern ones. All of my paintings have one of these titles, plus a reference number, starting with one and going on until…300!

How would you define your style?

I would define myself as a rather informal painter, who always tries to experiment and try new things. What I love is, for example, to melt ancient techniques with highly modern subjects. Or using unusual materials, such as coal, concrete, wood, glass…I love the way they feel and their strength.

To get in touch with Antonella Avataneo, contact her at +39 339|1327802 or at galleriastorello@libero.it. Alternatively, visit the website of the her art group, Gruppo Studio 7 www.gruppostudio7.it

Filed under: Art & Design