“You Can Fly,” 2013
few originals from artists that I like and artists-friends, that I can’t wait to finally hang when I’ll move to my new place. Yes, another move this year! (Laughs) I have a big stock of frames, vintage and new, I don’t know if this can be considered a collection, but I’m obsessed with beautiful and peculiar frames. I normally buy them to frame my artwork, so they are not for myself, but I really love them. It happens frequently that I hand paint them, to match the artwork that I’m going to put inside, I like that a lot. Also, painting my frames is a nice thing to do in between artwork to relax and just enjoy something decorative. What are your thoughts on the art toy world? I love toys! Toys and art are two things that just go perfectly together and enhance one another, combining new horizons and possibilities. I’ve always loved custom toys and nowadays with the advent of the 3D printer it represents a huge revolution that is making the whole process easier on a higher level. I love to 24 | Clutter 40
see blank toys transformed into “canvases” for different artists to paint and see how the same figurine can turn out so different after each artist completed its personalization. I was so excited to be a part of the “Bedtime Bunny” show [at Clutter Gallery], and have a chance to paint the toy designed by Peter Kato. It’s a super sweet little character.
work. If you believe in something, invest in it, take some risks and persevere. Talent is nothing without dedication.
Have you ever worked more sculpturally? Yes in my school days. I learned to model clay, but after that I preferred to concentrate more on painting because I think that it’s what I’m made to do. I would love one day to collaborate with a sculptor to create OOAK dolls. That is one of my dreams for the future. What advice would you give to an aspiring artist? I would say to focus on what is important to you. Learn to accept critique and be humble, know that you’ll never stop learning and if you become successful, always remember your beginning and be grateful for each single person who loves your
For more information on Simona Candini, please visit: simonacandini.com