A luminary in the art world, Gil, known by his full name Riccardo Gil Ferraro, has forged a remarkable path in the realm of artistic expression. His educational foundation in Painting from the renowned Brera Academy of Fine Arts in Milan serves as a testament to his dedication and craft. Currently residing and creating in the vibrant city of Pavia, Gil’s artistic journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Initially captivated by the ethereal allure of Surrealist aesthetics and the captivating chaos of decomposed collage techniques, Gil’s early artistic explorations laid the groundwork for a profound evolution. Transitioning into a scholar of medieval art, Gil delved into the rich tapestry of historical narratives, each brushstroke weaving a story of ancient civilizations and long-forgotten cultures.
As his artistic odyssey unfolded, Gil embarked on a transformative journey of introspective exploration, guided by meditation and a deep dive into the esoteric realm of ancient cults. It was during these moments of contemplation that Gil encountered his personal daimon, a mysterious and multifaceted entity known as Aibek. The daimon, a manifestation of the subconscious self, transcends conventional boundaries of identity, existing as a fluid and enigmatic essence that defies traditional categorization.
In the mystical realm where Gil’s artistry intertwines with spirituality, the daimon emerges as a smoky entity, simultaneously luminous and shrouded in mystery. Beyond the limitations of gender and form, the daimon exists as a beckoning enigma, calling forth inner truths and hidden depths of the soul. It is through the uncharted depths of diligent meditation and introspective practice that the elusive whispers of the daimon can be heard, guiding individuals on a profound journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
IN CONVERSATION WITH RICCARDO GIL FERRARO
Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in art?
I come from a humble family from Pavia. Actually, it was music that inspired me in the first place: I started playing bass when I was fifteen and I was immediately attracted by the colours of the punk world. That was my approach with art in general, the colourful expression of oneself through music and style. From there the next step was the tattoo world. I started doing tattoo drawing at eighteen, worked a bit in the field (in a non continuous way) and after some big disillusion about the tattoo world I found the courage to enter the Art Academy, in which of course I was (and maybe still are) an outsider.
How would you describe your artistic style and the themes or concepts you often explore in your work?
I don’t really like the concept of “style”, I think it’s just a natural development and distillation of all the influences that a person has, what the person likes. I like occult themes, everything that’s symbolic, esoteric, out of the direct reach or too “daily”. Of course they evolved and will go on doing that in the future. Let’s just say I am inspired by ancient art and by the world’s vast and infinitely interesting mythologies. Of course, as a contemporary artist, I can’t avoid reinterpreting everything in my own artistic view. I am not a recreationist nor a historically accurate executioner. I think mankind is at its best when it finds something worth passing on to future generations and develops an effective and authentic way to do that.
What mediums do you prefer to work with, and how do they influence your creative process?
I am a great paper lover. I love my work to be as direct as possible. Nothing can beat the feeling of a pen or pencil on paper. I love painting too, in the digital and traditional way, but it’s a bit more indirect, in my opinion. I like to keep diaries, sketchbooks, collecting images and objects that inspire me. This attention to the little things that mostly pass unnoticed is what inspires my artistic process: the final artwork in my vision Is a little jewel that keeps the symbolic suggestion of the moment.
Can you walk us through a recent piece of artwork and the story or inspiration behind it?
“Frea” is a piece I’m particurarly affectionate about. It’s an acrylic painting, quite small, 50×70 cm, but it encapsulates successfully my creative way. I have this musical project, called Ticinum, where we explore the local mythology and histories. I am fond of Langobard history and I am fascinated by the old religion of that people, probably because the capital of the Langobard reign was Pavia, called “the second Rome ” in ancient times. Anyway, I was investigating the mythology and I found out that, before converting to christianism (in a variant called aryanism) the probably venerated a holy triad of Godan (ancient concept of the modern Odin), Frea (ancient concept for Freya/Frigga) and Donar (ancient concept for Thor). I drawed women on top of animals, in a lot of different ways. I just loved the idea of this natural goddess riding on a boar (a symbol of my area of the world, and also found in the later mythology of Frea and Freyr). So I painted the scene, it’s kind of familiar and heartwarming to me.
How do you handle creative blocks or challenges during the artistic process?
When I feel blocked it’s usually a sign that my brain is giving me. The best way to get through is just “doodling” or doing other forms of art. Music, writing, anything that inspires me. At one point something just snaps back and I can return to do the thing I felt blocked about. That’s why I think it’s important to have multiple ways of expression.
Who are some artists or creatives who have influenced or inspired your work?
I love Carlo Zinelli, Bill Traylor, George Condo (more for his approach to art), Tim Burton and of course the medieval masters…Like Giovanni da Modena or Buffalmacco. Folk art is always important to me.
How do you see your art evolving in the future, and are there any new directions or projects you’re excited about?
I see myself creating more codices, books containing stories and symbology. And of course painting, I’d like to exhibit my art around the world. I have lots of ideas that excites me, all the time, so we will see what will become tangible in the future.
How important do you think it is for artists to engage with their audience or community, and how do you personally connect with your viewers?
It is important, of course it depends if you’re creating a persona linked to your art. For example, if I’m “genuine” then I don’t have to worry too much about what I say to the viewers. I will just post my artwork and connect with people who like it. If I were like Dalì, then everything would be artificial.
Can you share a memorable moment or achievement in your artistic career that has had a significant impact on you?
The most important moments were when I met fellow artists, like Francesco Fusi or Anna Colombi, who became like family to me. Every exhibition is a special moment, like the crowning of a period of my life, the closing of a chapter. The publication of my tarot deck (Medieval Mischief Tarot), with US Games. I have a ton of incredible moments and recollections.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are looking to establish themselves in the art world?
Never give up. It’s tough but just keep at it. Draw instead of losing time watching social networks or nonstop tv series. One drawing a day gets you a long way!
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