Interview
Giuseppe Matteo Pappalardo
Giuseppe Matteo Pappalardo was born in Catania, Italy in 1966. His artistic journey has been a liberation from the confines of conventional design, an escape from the cage that once restricted the full expression of his creativity. His recent body of work is a testament to the seamless fusion of his passions, intertwining the worlds of flora and the meticulous cataloging found in herbariums. In these creations, he unearths the perfect confluence of his diverse interests, resulting in a captivating collection that truly encapsulates his artistic vision. He embarks on a voyage of self-discovery, delving into the essence of his artistic identity. Currently, Giuseppe resides in Adelaide, Australia, where he immerses himself in the pristine Australian flora and fauna.
The wellspring of his inspiration flows from the enchanting herbariums nestled within botanical gardens, where preserved plant specimens serve as an infinite source of creative influence. In his ongoing artistic pursuits, he aspires to unveil a novel existence born from the delicate interplay between flora and fashion. Through his artistry, he aims to convey a sense of vitality and metamorphosis, breathing life into organic forms and weaving narratives that spark the imagination. Each stroke of the brush, every meticulously sculpted curve, and each intricate detail bear witness to his ever-evolving artistic odyssey and his unwavering quest to convey the intricate beauty inherent in the world of plants. By melding his expertise in fashion, theater, and botanical aesthetics, he strives to create works that transcend the boundaries of conventional art forms, offering observers a glimpse into a realm where nature and creativity harmoniously coalesce. He received his Masters degree in Design Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, in 2006. He has a degree in Set and Costume Design Accademia di Belle Arti Michelangelo, Agrigento, Italy and a degree in Fashion Design and Communication Polimoda, Florence, Italy. He has a diploma in Arte del Tessuto Istituto di Belle Arti di Sciacca, Italy.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I hail from Italy, having spent the first 30 years of my life in the country. Born in Catania, located in southern Italy, I remained there until completing my secondary school education. My journey into the world of art commenced within the walls of my family home. The spark for my passion was ignited by my father, an artist himself. After concluding his daily work, he would retreat to his desk, where he would meticulously draw Sicilian classic landscapes using ink and gouache. His artistic endeavors became a daily ritual that left an indelible mark on my own artistic inclinations. Additionally, our summer holidays were never mere vacations—they were artistic pilgrimages. Venturing into prominent cities like Rome, Naples, and Florence, we immersed ourselves in the rich cultural tapestry that Italy has to offer. Museum visits became a cherished tradition, exposing me to diverse artistic styles and masterpieces. This familial and experiential foundation has shaped my profound connection to art, turning it into an integral part of my identity. It has not only been a heritage passed down through generations but a source of inspiration that continues to drive my artistic pursuits today.”
What inspires you?
“What inspires me is a diverse tapestry of influences that shape not only my artistic endeavors but also my outlook on life. One of my primary wellsprings of inspiration is my profound passion for flora and plants. Their myriad shapes and colors create a personal sanctuary for me, providing solace during challenging moments in my life. Nature, in all its forms, serves as a well of comfort and inspiration, offering a refuge that has a unique way of rejuvenating my spirit. In addition to my love for nature, design plays a pivotal role in defining who I am today and serves as a constant source of inspiration. The vast realm of design has significantly influenced my mindset, shaping the way I approach my work. It has become more than a mere aesthetic interest; it has become a fundamental part of how I navigate the world. The influence of design extends beyond aesthetics—it has shaped my mind and the very process by which I undertake projects. The way I initiate and conceptualize a project is deeply rooted in design principles, and as the project evolves, it seamlessly transforms into a form of art. Design, for me, is not just a visual concept; it is a dynamic force that guides my creative process, infusing every project with a unique blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. In essence, my inspiration is a harmonious blend of the serene beauty found in nature and the structured creativity inherent in design. Together, these elements form the foundation of my artistic journey, guiding me to create works that reflect both the tranquility of the natural world and the sophistication of thoughtful design.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“My current body of work represents a harmonious fusion of my passions, intricately intertwining the realms of flora and the meticulous cataloging reminiscent of herbariums. This collection serves as a tangible expression of my diverse interests, resulting in a captivating array that encapsulates the essence of my artistic vision. As I step into the realm of 2023, it becomes a pivotal moment for profound self-reflection and artistic exploration. This marks the commencement of a transformative journey of self-discovery, where I delve deep into the core of my artistic identity. The inspiration for my creations emanates from the enchanting herbariums nestled within botanical gardens, where preserved plant specimens become a boundless source of creative influence. In my ongoing artistic pursuits, my aspiration is to portray a unique form of existence emerging from the delicate interplay between flora and fashion. Through my artistry, I seek to convey a vibrant sense of vitality and metamorphosis, infusing life into these organic forms and crafting narratives that ignite the imagination. Every stroke of the brush, every meticulously sculpted curve, and every intricate detail within my work bear witness to my ever-evolving artistic odyssey and my unwavering quest to articulate the intricate beauty inherent in the world of plants. By seamlessly blending my expertise in fashion, theater, and botanical aesthetics, I endeavor to create pieces that transcend the boundaries of conventional art forms. These works offer observers a glimpse into a realm where nature and creativity coalesce harmoniously, inviting them to explore a space where the boundaries between the natural world and artistic expression dissolve.”
“What inspires me is a diverse tapestry of influences that shape not only my artistic endeavors but also my outlook on life.”
How would you describe your work?
“Engaging in a thoughtful and deliberate process, my approach to creating art involves a significant amount of contemplation before any physical action takes place. Drawing from my background in design, I begin by defining crucial elements such as materials, size, and composition. This initial framework serves as a structured foundation for my creative endeavor. In the context of my recent work, particularly the "Herbarium" series, the journey commenced with the conceptualization of the container that would house the plants. This pivotal decision was influenced by my desire to support an imaginative range of plant sizes and weights. The choice of materials became a crucial consideration, as it needed to balance functionality with an aesthetic that complemented the organic essence of the subject matter. As I set out to build the piece, I allowed my instincts to guide me through each step of the process. The initial design framework served as a launching point, but the progression of the work unfolded organically. It's a dynamic interplay between careful planning and the spontaneous flow of creativity, a dance where each decision informs the next in a harmonious rhythm. For instance, as the container took shape, I found myself intuitively adjusting elements to better support the imagined plant within it. The size and weight considerations seamlessly integrated into the evolving composition, resulting in a piece that not only met the technical requirements but also resonated with a sense of artistic fluidity. This marriage of thoughtful design and instinct-driven execution encapsulates my artistic methodology. It's a process that acknowledges the importance of structured planning while embracing the serendipitous moments that arise during the act of creation. Through this, I aim to craft works that not only showcase a meticulous attention to detail but also radiate the energy of spontaneous inspiration.”
Which artists influence you most?
“The artistic tapestry that has woven itself into my creative journey draws inspiration from a diverse array of influential figures spanning my life, from my formative years to the present day. At the core of this influence lies my father, Pappalardo Vincenzo, whose passion for art in all its forms became the bedrock of my artistic identity. His guidance and love for creative expression laid the foundation for my own exploration of diverse artistic realms. During my school years, Nino Mustica emerged as a significant influence and official mentor. His teachings encouraged me to perceive things from unconventional perspectives, challenging me to break away from the conventional and embrace the richness of varied viewpoints. The indomitable Gianni Versace left an indelible mark on my approach to color and material usage. His fearless embrace of vibrancy and texture became a guiding principle, instilling in me the courage to push boundaries and experiment boldly. From the world of film and theater, Franco Zeffirelli's influence is particularly pronounced. His emphasis on precision and opulence in personal work resonated deeply, shaping my understanding of the visual arts as a meticulous and lavish craft. Alberto Burri's groundbreaking work blurred the boundaries between painting and relief sculpture, redefining the concept of the monochrome. His ability to captivate through the fusion of diverse artistic elements left an enduring impression, challenging me to rethink traditional artistic definitions. Lastly, Fiona Hall's utilization of unusual materials and her extraordinary reservoir of creative vision have been a wellspring of inspiration. Her seamless integration of cultural history, spanning decorative arts to photography and sculpture, broadened my perspective on the myriad possibilities within artistic expression. Collectively, these artists have formed a rich tapestry of influence, guiding me through a journey of diverse techniques, perspectives, and mediums. Their collective impact is evident in the dynamic interplay of color, form, and concept within my own work, which continues to evolve and be enriched by the legacy of these influential figures.”
What is your creative process like?
“In my art journey, I blend research, inspiration, and hands-on experimentation, like exploring last century's herbariums from Botanic gardens worldwide—archives that are just fascinating. Research is my starting point, diving into different areas to build a rich understanding. It's like a compass guiding me to inspiring landscapes, such as the captivating world inside botanical garden archives. The real magic happens when I get my hands on materials, trying out different techniques and forms. I pick diverse materials and create prototypes, letting surprises guide my creative path. These steps come together in a dance, shaping works that go beyond just putting things together. They're a mix of what I've learned, the feelings I pour in, and unexpected moments that make my art truly my own.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An artist's contemporary role revolves around narrative construction, providing a personal lens to encourage audiences to transcend conventional perspectives. My own artistic vision serves as a storyteller, prompting contemplation beyond the confines of conservative norms, reflecting my non-conservative mindset. In our multifaceted existence, we house diverse personas influenced by time, vibes, social contexts, and external forces. Assimilating these dynamics, we channel a spectrum of expressions in our artwork—ranging from simplistic depictions to intricate masterpieces, each underscored by the enduring presence of individualism. This evolution in the artist's role intertwines with societal shifts, fostering an environment where creative endeavors become catalysts for introspection and transformation.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I have taken part in numerous exhibitions, each holding cherished memories. Yet, one that profoundly touched my soul was the Onward Kashiyama in Tokyo. It marked my inaugural international showcase in the early '90s, allowing me to represent Italy as a young artist. The experience was nothing short of magical.”
Instagram: @giuseppematteoart
Brush Bio: www.brush.bio/giuseppematteo
