Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Marco Gallotta. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Marco, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?
I didn’t always earn a full-time living from my art. I faced numerous disappointments before reaching where I am today. Previously employed as a marketing director, I took a leap of faith to pursue my dream. I eventually quit my job to follow my passion, but the journey was challenging. Initially, I had to work part-time at a restaurant to make ends meet, balancing my time between my studio during the day and the restaurant at night. The art world proved to be highly competitive, and I faced multiple rejections from galleries and brands I approached. Despite the setbacks, I persevered and continued my journey until I started gaining recognition. A significant milestone was when a Hollywood star noticed me and commissioned a portrait from me, propelling my career forward. Subsequently, I secured collaborations with major brands, received art requests from high-profile clients, and witnessed a boost in my self-esteem. Even today, after many years, standing out amidst fierce competition remains a challenge. However, I remain committed, never looking back or giving up, and staying focused on my goals. It is crucial to brush off rejections and disappointments and keep moving forward. Reflecting on my career, I have few regrets, but if given the chance, I would trust my instincts more and seek less external validation.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am an Italian-born, New York City-based artist known for my expertise in paper-cutting techniques, drawing, painting, and metal installations. Drawing inspiration from nature, urban landscapes, and diverse artistic elements of the city, I infuse my work with a blend of craftsmanship and graphic sensibility. Utilizing mixed media, I combine watercolors, inks, and graphite on photographs that are intricately cut out. Layers of cut-out photographs, paper, and various materials are meticulously overlapped to create innovative compositions.
My clientele includes prestigious brands and notable personalities such as Chanel, Campari, Dolce and Gabbana, Ferrari, Nike, Vogue, Ferragamo, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of New York City, Radio City Music Hall, Megapixel, Columbia University, Academy Award winner Ennio Morricone, actor Will Smith, Barack Obama, former NBA player Gigi Datome, celebrity TV host Samantha Bee, Festival of Spoleto (Italy), and fashion entrepreneur Renzo Rosso.
Recently, I have integrated technology into my art, exploring the fusion of traditional art with modern advancements. Two notable projects, “Art Meets AI” in collaboration with Columbia University and “Metamorphosis” with Ventana Design (Megapixel), showcase this intersection. “Art Meets AI” delves into the application of AI algorithms to my paper-cutting style, with a focus on replicating intricate patterns and holes unique to my work. The collaboration with Columbia University resulted in the development of a specialized algorithm, the regularized generative adversarial network (regGAN), demonstrating AI’s potential as a creative partner in art creation.
“Metamorphosis” reflects the evolution of art and technology when combined, prompting contemplation on how we perceive and shape the world. This project merges art, science, visual technology, and architecture to showcase the transformative power of art, artificial intelligence, technology, and design. The installation combines traditional art elements like cut-out metal with cutting-edge technology, including the world’s slimmest, most luminous, and adaptable modular digital display by Ventana Design. “Metamorphosis” is now a permanent exhibit at Cut New York, thanks to the support of Wolfgang and Byron Puck, renowned figures in the culinary and hospitality industries.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Throughout the years, I have often found myself questioning my artistic pursuits, pondering, “Why do I do this?” These moments of introspection have exposed the self-doubt that many artists grapple with. I have had to cultivate the ability to transform setbacks into opportunities, fostering adaptability to navigate obstacles and discover new creative pathways.
A few years ago, I was approached by a major brand to conceptualize a new project they were developing. I dedicated a significant amount of time and effort to the project, only to witness its abrupt cancellation when we were nearing completion. In this instance, I had been working without a formal contract or agreement in place, leaving me without a project and uncompensated for my work.
Such experiences can trigger a decline in self-esteem and invite self-doubt to seep in. However, it is during these challenging moments that it becomes essential to draw strength and motivation from adversity. I had to regroup, summon my inner resilience, and muster the courage to present the same idea to a different client. Fortunately, I eventually found a new brand willing to embrace the concept. Adversities like these are not uncommon in my field, and I have learned to adeptly navigate and transform every negative situation into a positive outcome.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
In establishing my reputation within the art market, I strategically utilized a blend of distinctive artistic expression, targeted exposure, and fruitful commercial collaborations. By consistently producing exceptional and original artwork, maintaining a high level of professionalism, and fostering strategic partnerships with renowned international brands, I successfully carved out a distinguished and respected presence within the contemporary art market.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://marcogallotta.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcogallotta/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marco-gallotta-212b645/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MarcoGallottaArt
Image Credits
Billy Kidd
Timothy Chu
Sylvain Durand