Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Federico Massa. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Federico, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

One of my most significant projects was a large-scale mural in Rome, created using nano-technology paint capable of absorbing pollution from the air. This work stands as the largest European eco-friendly mural and powerfully illustrates the impact of human activities on nature. My artistic focus has always been on climate change and pollution, particularly through the representation of animals and natural landscapes.

We are navigating a new reality that demands our embrace, a fresh perspective that challenges us to adapt daily. In this context, humanity often feels like the “beast in a cage,” while nature and wildlife exhibit remarkable resilience, healing and thriving in ways we’ve rarely seen.

This raises critical questions: What comes next? How do we maintain the right equilibrium for a more sustainable future? Through my art, I aspire to spark dialogue about these urgent issues and encourage a collective reflection on our relationship with the environment, urging us all to explore pathways toward sustainability and harmony.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Federico “Iena Cruz” Massa, born in Milan, Italy, in 1981, is a distinguished mural artist who has carved a unique path in the world of art. He graduated in Set Design from The Academy of Fine Arts, Brera, in 2006. My artistic journey began in the vibrant landscape of 1990s California skateboard culture, where brands like Santa Cruz deeply influenced me. Adopting the alias “Cruz,” I started tagging the streets of Milan, drawn by the rebellious spirit of graffiti and the adrenaline rush of painting on moving trains.

As my artistic vision evolved, I transitioned from graffiti to Street Art, embracing the hyena as my symbol, representing resilience and positivity—an animal that appears to laugh regardless of the circumstances. This transformation gave rise to the name “Iena Cruz.”

In 2010, I made the bold move to New York City, where I discovered a new canvas for my talent. Living in Brooklyn, I immersed myself in the creative vibrancy of neighborhoods like Bushwick and Williamsburg, leaving my mark with vibrant, intricately layered murals that often feature animals as a reflection of my commitment to environmental conservation.

Today, I am recognized internationally for my large-scale mural work, which uniquely blends unconventional media and technology to address urgent issues such as climate change and social-environmental justice. My art is rooted in my Italian heritage and reflects years of dedicated study, evolving into a distinctive voice in the contemporary art world.

I am regularly invited to create public murals, participate in live painting events, and showcase my work at prestigious art fairs, institutional venues, and festivals. However, my art transcends mere visual appeal; it engages viewers in profound conversations about spiritual renewal, the natural world, and the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment. Each piece serves as a portal for reflection, urging viewers to connect with their higher selves and contemplate our role in fostering a sustainable and harmonious future.

I offer a diverse range of creative works, from large murals and canvas art to bespoke marble mosaics, wallpaper designs, and lamp creations. What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to merging art with advocacy, inspiring dialogue and action toward collective environmental consciousness. I take pride in being part of a movement that uses art as a catalyst for positive change, encouraging others to reflect on their relationship with the planet and to envision a more sustainable world.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Yes, there is a particular goal driving my creative journey: to raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire a collective sense of responsibility towards nature. My mission is rooted in the belief that art has the power to foster dialogue, provoke thought, and ignite action.

Through my work, I aim to highlight the urgent challenges posed by climate change and pollution, using my art as a platform to educate and engage communities. By representing animals and natural landscapes, I seek to create emotional connections that encourage viewers to reflect on their relationship with the environment and the impact of their choices.

Additionally, I strive to collaborate with organizations, institutions, and individuals who share my vision for a more sustainable future. By joining forces with like-minded people, I hope to amplify our collective voice and inspire others to take meaningful action.

Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to a cultural shift towards environmental consciousness, encouraging everyone to recognize the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of preserving our planet for future generations. This mission drives my creative journey and motivates me to explore new ways to engage with audiences and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One story that illustrates my resilience involves the creation of a significant mural dedicated to endangered species As an official part of Climate Week NYC and the SDG Action Zone during the UN General Assembly.
When I was approached by a local environmental organization “Green Point Heart 2020” to create a mural that would educate the community about endangered species, I saw it as an opportunity to channel my passion into a project that could have a meaningful impact.

The process was far from easy. I faced logistical hurdles, including securing permission from city officials, finding the right location, and raising funds for materials. Each setback tested my determination. There were nights I spent sketching designs, only to scrap them in favor of new ideas that felt more authentic to my vision. I leaned into my resilience, reminding myself that the struggle was part of the journey.

Through perseverance, I eventually succeeded in getting the necessary approvals and support. The mural came to life, depicting a vibrant array of endangered animals intertwined with local flora. As I painted, I engaged with the community, sharing the stories behind each species and fostering discussions about conservation. The mural became a focal point for local gatherings, inspiring conversations and action around environmental protection.

The project taught me the power of resilience—not just in overcoming obstacles, but in the ability to inspire change through art. It reaffirmed my commitment to my mission and showed me that challenges could be transformed into opportunities for growth. This experience continues to motivate me in my journey as an artist, reminding me that resilience is essential in the pursuit of meaningful impact.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ienacruz.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ienacruz
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/federico.massa.7
• Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/federico-massa-a-k-a-iena-cruz-7469a345
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ienacruz

Image Credits

Courtesy by the artist