Interview
Carlotta Schiavio
Carlotta Schiavio aka YaTii Talisman, is an artist with a diverse heritage. Born in Italy and raised in Africa, her cultural background has deeply influenced her artistic journey. Carlotta began her creative path in jewelry design before transitioning to painting in 1998. Her work spans continents and explores various artistic expressions, culminating in a permanent exhibition at the National Library “Abrehot” in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2022. Today, Carlotta is a full-time artist and recipient of “The Extraordinary Talent in the Arts Visa.” Her latest creation, “The Bugibatuki,” inhabitants of planet YaTii Talisman, where peace and harmony reign. Carlotta has now entered the literary world - The first book, Bugibatuki Watershed Awareness, is now available online.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I’m also known as YaTii Talisman. Born in Italy and raised in Ethiopia, my multicultural upbringing has deeply shaped my artistic vision. Art has became a way to explore and express the blend of cultures that define me. I'm proud to be a recipient of the Extraordinary Talent in the Arts Visa — a recognition that has supported and validated my commitment to pushing creative boundaries and sharing my vision on a global stage.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“My work aims to promote peace, empathy, and intercultural understanding in a world that often feels fragmented. Through the Bugibatuki — whimsical inhabitants of planet YaTii Talisman I created in 2020 — I explore themes of harmonious conflict resolution and the power of communication across differences. While not overtly political, the work offers a gentle yet profound commentary on global tensions, encouraging unity without confrontation. In 2024, this vision expanded into children's literature, using storytelling as a tool to nurture awareness, curiosity, and compassion from an early age.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“It’s a balance — I start with some planning to set the foundation, but I let my imagination take over from there. Once the core idea is in place, I allow space for spontaneity and creative flow to shape the final outcome.”
Are there any art world trends are you following?
“I'm an original thinker — I beat to my own rhythm. While I stay aware of what's happening in the art world, my work is guided more by intuition, imagination, and personal vision than by trends.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“I use a mixed media approach and do whatever feels comfortable and makes me enjoy what I’m doing. It’s all about staying playful and open to the process — I let curiosity and joy guide the way.”
“My work aims to promote peace, empathy, and intercultural understanding in a world that often feels fragmented.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art is a way to inspire peace, joy, and meaningful change. It’s a playful yet powerful tool to uplift others and share happiness with anyone who engages with it.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“I appreciate all artwork that achieves harmony in shapes and colors. When different elements come together in a balanced and cohesive way, it creates a sense of calm and beauty that resonates deeply with me. I believe that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so what moves one person might be different for another—but for me, this balance and flow is what makes a piece truly captivating and timeless.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“With a fervent desire to propagate peace and well-being globally, 2020 marked the advent of the Bugibatuki — enigmatic inhabitants of planet YaTii Talisman, gifted with the extraordinary ability to resolve conflicts harmoniously without asking questions. These whimsical beings, adorned with sea creatures atop their heads and equipped with computerized mouths for interstellar communication, land in water basins across the Earth to foster intercultural dialogue and promote peace. Venturing into a new creative epoch in 2024, I expanded into literature, collaborating with fellow creatives to craft educational and fantastical children’s tales featuring the beloved Bugibatuki. The first book, ‘Bugibatuki Watershed Awareness,’ was published in December 2024 and is now available for purchase online. In addition, I have just launched an online Bugibatuki merchandise store on Redbubble, bringing these charming characters to life through a variety of products.”
