Interview
France Gaggioli
France Gaggioli is a contemporary abstract artist whose work captures the delicate balance between nature's resilience and its fragility. Inspired by landscapes, architecture, and personal emotion, her vibrant abstract landscapes serve as metaphors to explore ecological and societal concerns. Through textured layers and striking colour palettes, France invites viewers to reflect on their relationship with the environment and the beauty at risk in our world. Raised in Europe and having lived in Paris, Shanghai, and Singapore, France's diverse experiences shape her artistic vision. Her background in fashion and design has profoundly influenced her approach to composition and texture, resulting in a unique blend of spontaneity and precision.
France's work has been exhibited internationally, including at World Art Dubai 2024 and Red Dot Miami 2024, where her Elemental series received acclaim. She is represented by Intersections Gallery in Singapore, which has featured her work in notable exhibitions such as Fabric of Time at EHL Singapore. Additionally, her art is showcased on prominent platforms like Fiidaa Art, The Artling, and Saatchi Art, connecting her with collectors worldwide. In January 2025, she will present her solo exhibition, Fragments of Nature, at the American Club Singapore. France’s philosophy revolves around the transformative power of art—to inspire, challenge, and connect. Her works are part of notable collections in Singapore and beyond, reflecting her growing impact in the contemporary art world.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My background is rooted in a life shaped by diverse cultures and landscapes. Growing up in Europe and later living in dynamic cities like Paris, Shanghai, and Singapore, I developed a deep appreciation for contrasts and harmonies. I initially worked in fashion and interior design with well-known, premium brands, where I honed my understanding of composition, colour, and texture. However, I always felt a strong pull toward artistic expression. About a decade ago, I made the decision to fully dedicate myself to painting, exploring abstract landscapes and mixed media. This journey has allowed me to merge my love for nature, architecture, and personal emotion into a visual language.”
What inspires you?
“I find inspiration in the natural world, from the quiet resilience of forests to the ever-changing tides of the ocean. The interplay between organic forms and human-made structures also deeply fascinates me, reflecting my experiences with architecture and design. On a broader level, societal and ecological concerns, such as glacier melting or deforestation, fuel my creativity, though I prefer to address these subtly rather than directly. My goal is to create work that evokes both beauty and a sense of responsibility, encouraging viewers to reflect on their relationship with the planet.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“The central theme of my work is the balance between destruction and beauty, as seen in the fragility of nature and the impact of human activity. Through my abstract landscapes, I explore the idea of resilience - both in nature and in the human spirit. My work often carries a meditative quality, inviting viewers to pause, breathe, and connect with something deeper. While my ecological concerns are present, my aim is to inspire awareness and hope, rather than despair.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work can be described as abstract landscapes that merge emotion with structure. I often use layered textures and vibrant colors to convey the raw energy of nature, balanced by minimalist and architectural elements. My paintings invite introspection and offer a sense of serenity while subtly challenging viewers to think about the fragility and beauty of our world. Each piece is both a window into my personal journey and a mirror for the viewer's own reflections.”
Which artists influence you most?
“I admire artists who balance aesthetic beauty with powerful messages. For instance, Shepard Fairey's ability to weave societal critique into visually compelling works resonates with me. Similarly, the emotional depth in the works of Mark Rothko and the structured minimalism of Agnes Martin inspire my own explorations of texture, colour, and form. These influences have encouraged me to pursue a delicate balance between spontaneity and precision in my work.”
“The central theme of my work is the balance between destruction and beauty, as seen in the fragility of nature and the impact of human activity.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process begins with observation and introspection. I often start with a concept inspired by nature or a fleeting emotion, and I let that idea guide my choice of colors and textures. I enjoy experimenting with mixed media, layering acrylics, and incorporating tools like palette knives to create depth. While I plan the initial framework of my work, much of the process is intuitive, allowing the piece to evolve naturally. This combination of structure and improvisation keeps my process dynamic and fulfilling.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“I believe an artist’s role is to inspire, challenge, and connect. Art has the power to evoke emotions, raise awareness, and encourage dialogue. In our rapidly changing world, artists have a unique opportunity to address pressing issues - such as environmental conservation or social justice—while offering hope and a sense of shared humanity. As society becomes more digital and fragmented, I see art as an essential tool for grounding people and fostering deeper connections.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Yes, I have had the privilege of participating in several noteworthy exhibitions that have shaped my journey as an artist. The launch of my Elemental series took place at World Art Dubai 2024, marking a significant milestone in my career. This exhibition allowed me to present the series for the first time, introducing audiences to my exploration of the forces of nature and the balance between beauty and destruction.
More recently, I exhibited at Red Dot Miami 2024, where I continued showcasing works from Elemental alongside selected pieces from my Silentium and Linea series. This prestigious international art fair provided an opportunity to connect with collectors and art enthusiasts on a global scale, and I was honored by the positive reception my work received. Another notable moment was the Fabric of Time exhibition at EHL Singapore, curated by Intersections Gallery. This group show explored themes of time and transformation, providing a platform to showcase my work alongside other talented artists. Looking forward, I am thrilled about my upcoming solo exhibition, Fragments of Nature, at the American Club in Singapore (January to February 2025). This exhibition will feature over 40 of my artworks, providing an immersive experience into my artistic journey and vision.”
