Abel Byrne of Whitewell Print

Fiorentina Giannotta (New York, 1964). Fiorentina Giannotta's poetics is characterized by a mix of history, irony and a lively exploration of colors and materials. Her works celebrate imperfect and ironic characters, immersed in imaginary and decorative landscapes, which invite the viewer to a visual and emotional participation, rather than a mere contemplation. Giannotta's characters, often inspired by historical figures or fictional protagonists, are conceived as "imaginary ancestors" with whom to establish an emotional companionship, creating a sense of personal connection and almost pleasant obsession. This choice is influenced by the ironic potential of the characters themselves. Elements such as lace, buttons, ribbons and bows add humor and lightness, making the works accessible and fascinating. Giannotta's influences range from great painters to novels and fiction, combining to create figures that express emptiness, rebellion and imperfection. Flowers and slogans are recurring elements in her works. Flowers, used as a decorative background, create artificial landscapes that reinforce the idea of ​​an imaginary world. Slogans, such as “live, laugh and love” or “I am not the Mona Lisa of the Louvre but the Mona Lisa of your home”, add strength and participation to the works, involving the viewer more. Giannotta experiments with various materials in addition to classic acrylics, using industrial paints that allow her to play with consistencies and transparencies. Her favorite colors, such as Nissan green, Barbie pink, Barragan pink, butter yellow, oyster white and iridescent white, allow her to obtain both watercolor and thick effects. This technique, together with the small squiggles made with ceramic brushes, gives her works a three-dimensional and dynamic effect, further accentuating the vitality and energy of her compositions.