Time for another interview. I'd like to introduce you to Silvia from Giochi di Carta. Silvia has worked as an illustrator of text books and fiction books for children for over 10 years. She is currently working as an illustrator, graphic designer, crafter and a paper cut artist. She is a mother of two children, ages 4 and 7. Silvia lives in one of my favorite countries: Italy.
1. You have illustrated many books. Which one is your favorite?
Silvia: Since I became a mother, 7 years ago, even my illustrations have approached the world of little pre-school aged children.
One of my favorite books is "Che cos'è? Prime Parole" (in English "What is it? First Words"),
published by Italian Emme Edizioni. The designs are big, very simple and sweet.
2. You're a mom of two young children. Any tips on finding time to be creative?
Silvia: The secret is always to organize your time. When my kids are at school, I try to do as much as possible. Sometimes I involve them in some
of my projects, and then
the table becomes a real mess full
of colors!
When they go to sleep, and the house is silent again, I can finally speak with my husband ;)
and I often return to my studio to finish some work, or work at the computer.
3. What inspires you to
be creative?
Silvia: Usually my greatest inspiration is nature. I love flowers, any kind of plants, the sea. Nature has wonderful designs, and I
simply "copy it"!
The Internet is another
great source of inspiration, because it allows me to know many artists and crafters whom with their amazing works stimulate me to always think of something new.
4. What sparked your interest in paper
cutting?
Silvia: I have always liked paper. I have always drawn, clipped and pasted. After
so many years as an illustrator of textbooks, I felt
the need to do something
different.
I discovered artists such as Elsa Mora, Jayme McGowan, Rob Ryan and
many others. I started thinking that this was the road I was looking for for so many years!
5. Which paper cutting is your favorite?
Silvia: One of my favorite paper cutting is what I called "Bouquet".
6. Who are your favorite creative people?
7. Do you like to read? Any favorite, must-read, books?
Silvia: Reading is one of my favorite things to do after drawing. When my
husband and I moved in together, in most of the boxes there were only books!
Now that I'm busy with work and family life, I don't have much time to read. I like to browse interior design and crafts books.
There is a classic which I like, "The Old Man and the Sea" by Ernest Hemingway.
8. What do you like best about
Italy? What place in Italy would you recommend people to visit? Why?
Silvia: Italy is full of beautiful cities. Just think of Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan. Every region has something that sets it apart.
However, if there is a place that is very special for me, it is Sardinia. My father was born on this beautiful island, and I had the good fortune to spend my childhood summers near it's white beaches and crystal clear water. A true paradise!
9. Do you travel? What is your favorite place you have visited?
Silvia: I love to travel and learn new things. Every place I have visited has been important, but I have not traveled much, and I still have many things to see.
I enjoyed visiting the Canary
Islands!
10. Do you visit other blogs? Which are your
favorite ones?
Grazie, Silvia, for taking time to do this interview.
