Today we’d like to introduce you to FRANCESCA FURIAN.

Hi FRANCESCA, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

My journey as an artist and designer has been anything but linear—it’s a story shaped by creativity, resilience, and transformation. I grew up in a small town in northern Italy, where the solitude of my childhood sparked a deep curiosity and love for art. Whether I was crafting toys from recycled materials or painting, creativity became my refuge and a way to explore the world around me. This passion led me to study industrial design at an academy of fine arts, where I immersed myself in a community of makers, learning to approach every project with a problem-solving mindset.
After graduating, I worked in London, refining my artistic passion, and later spent eight years in Italy’s furniture and Murano glass industries, blending design with art. However, life took an unexpected turn when I moved to New York as a new mom. Adjusting to a new culture and lifestyle was challenging, but art remained my constant. I studied graphic and product design at Parsons while caring for my children and began freelancing, focusing on illustration and design.
One pivotal moment came when I participated in a market, showcasing personal artwork I’d kept hidden. The positive reception reignited my passion, leading me to establish myself as an independent artist. Today, I run my own business from my studio in Park Slope, creating watercolor and printmaking art inspired by New York’s vibrant culture, as well as merchandise designed by me showcasing my artworks. I have many other ideas and my journey has also opened doors to teaching, I’m excited to see where it will lead me.
Through every challenge and transition, following my heart and creativity has guided me. Each step has been a blend of growth, discovery, and determination to pursue my dreams while balancing family life. This is Francis’ World—a reflection of where I’ve been and the endless possibilities ahead.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

It hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has played a crucial role in shaping my journey. Moving to New York as a first-time mom was a significant turning point—it meant leaving behind a career and adapting to a new culture while raising a young family. I struggled to find my footing, often feeling disconnected from my professional identity and unsure how to reconcile my creative ambitions with the demands of motherhood.
Financial constraints and the limited flexibility of traditional design roles pushed me to rethink my approach. Working late nights as a freelancer while taking care of my children during the day wasn’t easy or remunerative, and self-doubt often crept in. Adjusting to the fast-paced energy of Brooklyn was another hurdle, as I worked to rebuild connections and understand a completely different creative landscape.
However, these struggles forced me to redefine success on my own terms, leading me to pursue a path that aligns with both my personal and professional goals. It’s been a challenging but deeply rewarding journey, one that’s taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of following my passions.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

I am specializing in printmaking and watercolor paintings, with a focus on creating art that captures the balance between individuality and shared experience. In addition to developing my own collections, I collaborate with companies, writers, and private individuals as an illustrator and designer, transforming their ideas into unique visual narratives.
Based in Brooklyn, my work is profoundly shaped by the borough’s vibrant energy and cultural diversity. I use the natural imprecision of stamp techniques and textured supports to explore themes of repetition and individuality, creating pieces that mirror the dynamic yet harmonious rhythm of urban life. Watercolor, on the other hand, allows me to express a more emotional and fluid side of my creativity..
What sets me apart is my ability to blend these techniques into art that feels deeply personal while resonating universally. Whether it’s a series of prints or a collaborative project, I strive to create pieces that tell meaningful stories.
The project I am most proud of is a gift toy I designed for the gift stores: a Brooklyn stamp set that includes seven stamps and two ink pads. The set features visual elements inspired by my neighborhood, including the house where I live! This project is deeply personal, as it combines my illustrations with my industrial design skills, and I poured a lot of myself into its creation. The positive response from the public has been incredibly rewarding, especially since I’ve always been passionate about the toy industry and have some ideas tucked away in a drawer that I want to bring to life!

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?

I’m just staring out! My advice to those like me is to trust your heart—it knows where your best self belongs and will guide you toward opportunities that align with your true passions. Starting out can feel overwhelming, but staying connected to your inner voice will help you make authentic choices that reflect who you are.
I’m still finding my way, but one thing I’ve learned is the importance of valuing your work, both creatively and financially. For much of my life, I was shy about asking for payment for my creations. I’ve always created art as a form of self-expression, and I worked as a designer for free or for very little just to gain experience and bring my ideas to life. What I didn’t realize at the time is that appreciation and fair payment from clients are integral to the creative process.
Think of it like a poker game: the money on the table or in your pocket gives purpose to your moves. Moreover, without money on the table, you can’t fully understand the other players. Charging what your work is worth isn’t just about financial gain—it’s a way to engage with others, understand their perspective, and see how your art inspires them. This exchange of ideas becomes part of the story you’re telling, adding richness to your creative journey.
At the same time, don’t lose sight of your own vision. While it’s important to understand the larger mechanism you’re part of, stay grounded in your values and keep the connection to yourself strong. This balance—between honoring your creative identity and embracing the interactions your work sparks—is key to growing as an artist/maker/entrepreneur and finding fulfillment in your journey.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/francis_world/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franciswstudio/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesca-furian-4926baba/