Creating art is “caring for others”
From scenography studies to painting, Daniela Casoni is the interpreter of a kind of art that, amidst the lights, shadows and colours of existence, is able to grasp the sense of tenderness and care for others.
“As the day winds down and everything slows down, we can ask ourselves if our shadows have been useful to anyone or anything. That’s why I imagined a painting to frame the sundial. It’s a tribute to God for all he’s given us. Praise to him for giving us the time and life to grow.” Daniela Casoni
Daniela Casoni was born in Milan and took her first steps towards art by attending the art school and later became passionate about studying at the famous Brera Academy, devoting herself in particular to the school of scenography. Every great passion is born or nourished by someone who transmits it to us, a mentor. For Daniela, that mentor is Professor Varisco, who both contaminates and enriches her art, teaching her the fundamental rule that those who work in the art world know so well: to look at the world from a different perspective, to discover the infinite and differently interpretable universe of light, shadows and colours. In an interesting conversation with Daniela, I asked her a few questions to satisfy my curiosity - and I hope yours as well - about her greatest passion: painting.
Art as a necessity and self-discovery What inspired you to pursue a career in art? I’ve always been comfortable with colours. The sense of well-being and concentration I get from painting are two sensations that have accompanied me on my artistic journey since I was young. For me, painting is as essential as eating or sleeping. It’s also a way for me to gain deeper insights into others and, most importantly, myself. Each painting, each canvas expresses a part of me that I’m not even fully aware of.
What’s your favourite subject for painting, if you have one? Anything that makes me feel tender becomes my favourite subject, anything that has a hidden, unnoticed side full of affection and sweetness.
What are your feelings when you’re painting? Painting is not only a source of great enjoyment for me, but it also allows me to connect with people on a deeper level. It’s also a way of looking out for others by getting to know their tastes and emotions, and listening to myself.
Between techniques, styles, and inspirations Which art movement do you find most appealing and why? Art movements reflect the times in which they emerge, and each one has its own distinctive features and fascinating characteristics, which is why I find them all so appealing. Similarly, I don’t have a preference when it comes to style. I’m always up for trying out different styles and putting my own spin on them.
How would you describe your technique? I’d say balanced, meticulous, gentle. Over the years, following the flow of the moment and the needs of the present, I’ve tried different techniques, and each one has taught me something and left me with something. More recently, I’ve been developing a technique that allows me to paint canvases by recognising objects through their shadows, light, colour changes and shading. My ‘stained’ eyes required extra effort, challenging me to change the way I work, but again I discovered something unexpected and new about myself and what art and creativity can offer.
What gets your creative juices flowing and what do you find most inspiring? For me, it’s other people, their desires and their emotions. Painting is where I connect with the world around me, its details, including the invisible and precious things that I sometimes manage to capture.
Art as memory, truth, and welcome Which artist from the past do you particularly admire and why? I admire Caravaggio because he captures what he sees on canvas. He captures the highlights of each subject, but also shows its flaws, without holding back. I like art that captures reality.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on Campiglio, from the past to today and even how you see it in the future... Campiglio is a hidden gem with a simple and humble history. Needless to say, the passage of time and the advent of tourism have brought about a number of changes and improvements, but not always... Sometimes it seems to have lost its original, natural, typical character.
What do you think about the importance of using culture and art to promote tourism in our region? Art and culture have always been about freedom of expression, listening and welcoming everything you come into contact with, whether it’s people or experiences. Art, therefore, like other tourist activities, is just one of the possible ways in which we can welcome those who choose us, in summer or in winter, to spend their time relaxing and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
