A true Japanese lover, Daisy Ingrosso turns geishas, samurais, wild cranes, and cherry blossoms into designs that make us wanna go far away. She told us about living in a small village in Italy, her love for The Little Prince, and what she’s up to in the future.
Scroll down and explore the world of her colorful art.
Where do you live?
I live in Italy, in a beautiful town near the sea and surrounded by hills. In the summer it is a tourist place full of people, but in the autumn it discloses its best and hidden side, filled with colors by plenty of green areas.
What is the biggest inspiration for your art?
Since I was a little girl, I have always been fascinated by manga and Japanese culture. Also, some fairy tales and classic books have often stimulated my creativity. Actually, my favorite book is The Little Prince, a constant source of inspiration for me 🙂 There are many contemporary illustrators and painters from the past who have influenced me, such as Van Gogh and Klimt.
What is your “Japan Dream”?
My “Japan Dream” had been born long before my first (and last, for now) trip to Japan. I was impatient to leave and immerse myself in a culture extremely different from mine, try unknown flavors, look at gazes so different from mine, and start living in a different world. It was the best trip of my life. I want to return there and visit many other places outside the big cities, such as mountains and rural areas. I dream of staying for a while surrounded by one of those Japanese landscapes I love to draw.
How did you come up with the idea for the Japan-inspired collection?
As a young girl, I liked manga, then as an adult, I started studying the origins of Japanese art. So I thought to integrate the Sumi-e painting style and reproduce something similar by blending it with some key symbols of Japanese culture plus the basic colors, black, red, and white. The result was the “Japan Dream.” I was curious to try new techniques and experiment with a more “raw” and instinctive style. The design was satisfying, so I decided to make more and expand the collection. 🙂
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not creating?
I really like walking in the woods, being in nature as much as possible. My favorite time is autumn, during the foliage. I am also a full-time aunt and love spending time with my nieces and family.
If you could pick another career path – what would it be?
I’ve tried to do different things in my life, but somehow I always feel the need to do something creative. A few years ago, I worked as an artisan, making nice and colorful costume jewelry in Fimo, a synthetic paste similar to clay. It was a good time. If I hadn’t taken the path of illustration, probably I’d have continued on that one of craftsmanship.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m working hard to become a full-time Illustrator and return to Japan! :). In addition to the designs, I am dedicating a lot to illustration for children and teenagers, aiming to publish some illustrated stories soon and bring my characters to life.
Instagram: @daisyart_lab
