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

Vittoria , appreciate you joining us today. Do you feel you or your work has ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized? If so, tell us the story and how/why it happened and if there are any interesting learnings or insights you took from the experience?

It’s the journey of Art and Self- Discovery. It’s all about embracing one’s human complexity. In the realm of art, the boundaries defining roles and expectations often confine artists to singular labels. For me, as a screenwriter, film director, performance artist, painter, textile artist, and spiritual seeker, the question of which box I fit into has been a perpetual puzzle — Artist? Creative? Storyteller? Eccentric? Or perhaps, still undecided?

Breaking down the taboo surrounding how artists are perceived becomes a crucial part of this narrative. I find it intriguing that, even today, there exists confusion about what I actually do. Along my path to becoming a contemporary Renaissance woman, I’ve encountered both encouragement and disapproval from unexpected sources.

As a young art student, I was once told by an established female artist that my joyfulness, colourful nature, and sociability seemed incongruent with the image of a true artist. The prevailing notion was that art must be born from suffering and solitude. While I did explore being a hermit and living in darkness, I was never drawn to the cliché of the tormented, starving artist. In the midst of painting my own shadows and exploring themes of death through cinematic drama and dark comedy, I experienced a profound awakening — I finally discovered lightness.

Influenced by the joy of thespians, the purity of children, the wonders of nature, and the connection with kindred spirits, I felt the impossibility yet possibility of FREEDOM! This newfound freedom transcended the need to conform to an art market or the expectations of educated others. The frequency of my work changed, moving towards what I can only describe as LOVE.

I chose to unravel the stories that held me back, embarking on this quest for freedom and inviting the path to reveal itself. “Know thyself as above and as below.” This ancient wisdom became my guiding principle.

Every creation now serves as a personal diary to the great mystery, a celebration of the extraordinary within the ordinary. I call this my cosmic clowning, where playtime becomes sacred, transcending borders and confinements. For accepting the great mystery, the journey becomes simple — I am the dream.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Art has been my life’s heartbeat from the very beginning — from the innocent days as a toddler, sketching on my mother’s Laura Ashley painted walls, to performing with Butoh dancers in Kyoto and embodying “Eva Serpenta”, the Sea Serpent Queen in a Californian Mermaid tribe. The canvas of my life extended further into giant paintings. With wild colours, yarn, and boundless imagination.

While some recognise me primarily as a filmmaker, having crafted numerous award winning music videos, shorts, and documentaries, I am also the survivor of many feature film miscarriages. Yet my creative journey refuses to cease. A distinct love for colour and stories fuels my artistic spirit, drawing from personal and cultural influences ranging from the simplicity of nature, childhood memories, and the admiration of great women past and present. I am here, to surprise and limit the mundane in this short, vibrant life.

I initially embarked on my artistic journey through bel canto singing and later pursued my passion for painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Rome. However, it was the acting bug that led me to graduate from the Gaiety School of Acting in Dublin. Growing weary of waiting to be discovered, I decided to take matters into my own hands by writing and directing original material for my talented friends. In turn, this led me to Hollywood as a writer director where I experienced so many incredible Californian adventures!

At present I have a studio in Florence Italy where I continue to explore various creative realms — from writing and directing to performance and stand-alone artworks.  I breathe life into organic and inorganic materials, including thread, yarn, paint, wood, and ready-made artifacts. The journey is really a kaleidoscopic odyssey, a continuous dance of colours and stories, a celebration of life’s boundless creativity.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist, lies in the journey outside of my comfort zone.

There’s immense satisfaction in the surprises that unfold throughout the creative process, culminating in the final result. Witnessing people’s reactions is a source of deep joy, especially that moment of ‘AHA or AWE,’ when eyes widen, and mouths open in surprise. It’s a powerful connection, whether someone loves or dislikes the work—I aim to AWAKEN.

The real magic happens in the viewer’s response, that spark of recognition that touches a nerve, evokes a memory, or simply reminds them of the vitality of their own imagination. Once the work is shared, it transcends my control, becoming a vessel that has fulfilled its purpose. Moving on to the next project, I embrace the beauty of being a conduit for new creative adventures.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Of course! Mostly unlearning the limitations inherited from my past.

I’m breaking free from the constraints learned in school and challenging my imposed identities. I’ve sought to relearn and be propelled by curiosity. Discipline has been my key and my commitment to doing something each day and working on it consistently has opened doors to new inspirations and a sense of freedom.

Time on this planet is a fleeting moment, urging a deep connection with one’s experience and doing what brings salvation. In return ART  becomes my SERVICE to Existence.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.colonnavittoria.com
• Instagram: @VittoriaColonnaStudio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VittoriaColonnaArtist
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vittoria-colonna-studio

Image Credits
Michele Campagni, Chumash, Jeremy Boxer & Creative Studio.