Interview
Carlotta Schiavio
Carlotta Schiavio, also known as YaTii Talisman, has traversed the globe, culminating in a prestigious permanent exhibition at the National Library "Abrehot" in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2022. She is now a full-time artist, her latest creation, "The Bugibatuki," comes from her celestial haven, the YaTii Talisman planet where harmony reigns supreme. These extraordinary beings possess the remarkable ability to resolve any challenge with positivity, sans interrogation. Guided by intuition, Carlotta’s artistic evolution has been a voyage of experimentation with diverse techniques and mediums. In the year 2000, she created the imaginative realm of planet YaTii, later blossoming into YaTii Talisman. "Stars up close" unveiled a series of paintings capturing the vibrant skies of YaTii Talisman, while "Apotropaic Magic" manifested as shields crafted to repel negative energies.
In 2011, the creation of the portable painting, YaTii Talisman, aimed to infuse its possessor with boundless positivity, crafted on handmade cotton paper, sun-dried in Sicily, Italy. Her unique technique initially involved sewing disparate sections together, symbolizing equilibrium. However, in 2018, she embarked on a transformative journey, opting to paint on whole surfaces, discarding the stitching metaphorically akin to shedding ill-fitting attire. In 2019, amidst her residency in Ethiopia for the Abrehot Library initiative, she painted discs of eucalyptus wood with symbolic eyes, embodying the omnipresent gaze of protection and vigilance. With a fervent desire to propagate peace and well-being globally, 2020 heralded the advent of the Bugibatuki, enigmatic aliens of YaTii Talisman, endowed with the extraordinary gift of harmonious conflict resolution without asking questions. Their ethereal presence, landing in water basins across the Earth, is marked by the whimsical adornment of sea creatures atop their heads. Armed with computerized mouths for interstellar communication, they are able to create inter-cultural dialogues to further create peace. Their intricate appellations are simplified by human inhabitants into earthly monikers. Venturing into a new creative epoch in 2023, she delves into the realm of literature, collaborating with fellow creatives to craft educational and fantastical children's tales featuring the beloved Bugibatuki. The inaugural book is due for publication in 2024, accompanied by a delightful range of greeting cards graced by the whimsical visages of these celestial emissaries.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I have a diverse heritage, born in Italy and brought up in Ethiopia, blending a rich tapestry of cultures including Italian, Russian, Syrian, Austrian, and Ethiopian influences. My artistic journey began as a self-taught jewelry designer before I transitioned to painting in 1998. This path has taken me around the globe.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“My works explore themes of identity, transformation, and the intersection of nature and technology. I create immersive experiences that invite the audience into my visionary world. My work has graced galleries and cultural institutions across Europe, Africa and the US. I have honed my skills across multiple disciplines, including painting, jewelry design, fashion, installations, and more recently, visual storytelling.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“I strive for a balance between planning and improvisation in my creative process. I begin with some planning that provides me with a general roadmap, guiding me toward my goals. However, as I delve into the work, I allow myself the freedom to improvise. This spontaneity taps into my intuition, often leading to unexpected and delightful outcomes that I truly cherish. This blend of structure and flexibility makes my work feel more alive and unrestrained. By embracing the unexpected, I create a space where my ideas can evolve organically, resulting in pieces that resonate with authenticity and depth. The journey becomes as important as the destination, enriching my artistic expression.”
“As a modern artist, I find myself drawn to several current trends that reflect the evolving nature of art and society.”
Are there any art world trends you are following?
“As a modern artist, I find myself drawn to several current trends that reflect the evolving nature of art and society. One prominent trend is the integration of technology into the creative process. Whether it’s using digital tools, virtual reality, or interactive installations, technology opens up new avenues for expression. I’m also intrigued by the growing emphasis on social commentary and activism within art. Many contemporary artists are using their platforms to address pressing issues like climate change, social justice, and identity, pushing the boundaries of what art can communicate and achieve. Sustainability is another key trend. Many artists are exploring eco-friendly materials and practices, reflecting a broader awareness of our environmental impact. This not only influences the materials I choose but also informs the themes I explore.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“In my mixed media artwork, I embrace a diverse array of processes, materials, and techniques to create depth and texture. I often start with a conceptual phase, where I sketch out ideas and gather inspiration from various sources - whether it's nature, urban environments, or personal experiences. For materials, I use everything from acrylics , watercolors, markers, etc. to unconventional items and mediums. Incorporating these elements allows me to explore different textures and visual narratives within a single piece. My techniques vary widely; I enjoy layering paints and mediums. Different techniques help create unique effects. I also often experiment with mixed media layering, combining 2D and 3D elements to add dimension. Ultimately, my process is very intuitive. I allow the artwork to evolve organically, responding to how the materials interact and how I feel during the creation. This blend of structure and spontaneity makes each piece a unique exploration of my ideas and emotions.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art is a deeply personal expression of my thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Creating art provides me with a sense of freedom and joy. It’s a space where I can experiment without boundaries, letting my intuition guide me. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to provoke curiosity and reflection, encouraging viewers to explore their own relationships with these themes.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder - I enjoy many different kinds of art, each offering unique perspectives and emotional experiences. Whether it's the bold colors of abstract pieces, the intricate details of realism, or the thought-provoking concepts in contemporary art, I find inspiration in the diversity of expression. Each artwork resonates with me for different reasons, reflecting the complexity of human experience and creativity.”
Website: www.yatii.com
Instagram: @yatii_talisman
