Michela Zarino

I was born and raised in Vercelli, in the North of Italy, where I currently live.

I have always been passionate about art, since when I was a child. In terms of artistic influences, I’m especially fond of Greek and Roman art, and also the art from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Currently, I’m discovering and admiring the Japanese art, both modern painting and
Nihonga style.

The main theme of my paintings are people.
While observing the gaze of people for my portraits I can feel the wide spectrum of human emotions and purposes thanks to the people I’m painting on the canvas, which otherwise I find difficult to express with words.

I believe that we are all driven by the need to preserve and improve the quality and continuity of our existence; similarly, contributing to the well-being of others is one of the most powerful forces of human motivation. I also believe that connecting with others is one of the fundamental human needs that drive our behavior.

We have different options to connect with others: in this context, the gaze is a powerful means of connection that transcends time and space, in life and in art.

Condensed within a glance is truly the entire interiority of an individual. It is no coincidence that a person’s fa...

I usually paint using oil on canvas; I especially like this medium because it’s flexible and versatile, and colors are vibrant and rich. I also like to experiment mixed techniques combining oil, watercolors and charcoal.

I’m a self-taught about drawing and watercolors; when approaching and learning the oil painting techniques in 2012, I have received tutelage from the well-known local painter Roberto de Lorenzo (also known as Lorenz).

2016 - Collective painting exhibition “Passaggi d’arte” in Fontanetto

2018 – Extemporaneous painting exhibition “Coniolo in fiore” in Coniolo

2019 - Collective painting exhibition “Women365” in Fontanetto

2019 - Collective painting exhibition “The Art of Research” hosted by Casa Museo Alda Merini, Milano

2017-2024 – Permanent public exhibition at Ca’ dal Cusu Restaurant in Vercelli

2017-2024 – Extemporaneous annual painting exhibition in Fontanetto

2018-2024 - Collective annual painting exhibition “Sagra d’la Panissa” in Vercelli

2024 – Live painting session "Autunno, vigneti e castelli" in Camino Monferrato

2025 – Live painting session "Sogno di Primavera" in Camino Monferrato