The alleys in the romantic illustrations of Alida D’Ambra
“I was born and raised in Lipari, situated in the Aeolian Islands. Creativity has always been part of my life since childhood, any object became a game to imagine, build or reinvent. My passion for creativity and design contributed to my choice of becoming an Interior Designer, graduating from IED in Rome. The passion for graphic design dates back in the university years with the conception of Dada. I am currently based in the United States.”
Have you experienced different styles in your professional career before finding your identity? My starting point is always a geometric shape. My illustrations remain more rigorous in shapes and colors since I do not use the tablet to draw. I do not like shading and gradient of color, but I prefer spot colors. My palette is inspired by the fabrics, materials, and wallpapers I work with every day. In the portraits of my island the colors try to remain faithful to the landscapes.
What do you think is the ultimate power of illustration? To me, illustration is the simplest and broadest way to represent something. In fact, what is illustrated can reach a much wider audience than photography (definitely more enigmatic).
How much does the setting affect your illustrations? I have a very strong bond with the islands. Being an expat, nostalgia for my island is constant and recurring in my works. Even Rome is often the protagonist, with its neighborhoods and alleys that have always brought me home with my mind.
We have noticed that in your works faces are represented without expression: is it a distinctive feature of your style? I do not want to tie characters to illustrations, so I purposely “remove” the expression from my characters. I want my audience to be free to interpret it, though it often occurs in commissions that I am required to draw faces, which I eventually do. If it were for me, I would avoid it!
Compared to your influences, do you think you have unknowingly been inspired by artists/ artistic currents? The artistic movements closest to my style are Expressionism and Pop-art, both characterized by bright colors and strong color contrasts. Instead, I am inspired by Malika Favre. I love her illustrations with spot colors, very saturated colors, light gradients, and shadows.
Speaking of color… What is your relationship with the selection and combination of colors?As an interior designer, I necessarily find myself working with palettes and combinations of every variety daily. I really like excesses, very saturated colors, and not necessarily neutral shades.
Contact: @yourssincerelydada
