Andrea Tarella

Illustrator

©Pietro Baroni

©Artolica

©Andrea Tarella

Extravaganza of nature

Andrea is a totally self-taught illustrator
His works have seduced the fashion world
Nature is his main source of inspiration

Born and raised on the shores of Lake Maggiore, within a few years the illustrator Andrea Tarella has been in the spotlight, thanks to his collaborations with big names in fashion like Prada, Fiorucci, Trussardi, Yves Saint Laurent, Pitti. His work reveals a naturalistic passion for plants and animals, especially birds, fish and insects. This ethological interest flourished during his science studies and now at home in Milan, where he lives with several creature companions: among them an iguana and a pheasant. But he desires a peacock: “It represents me.” In Andrea's illustrations there is a touch of magical surrealism and a fascination for curved Art Nouveau lines, twinned with vibrant colours. Andrea creates illustrations, interior decorations, decorative panels and performs live.

Interview

©Artolica

©Artolica

With which techniques do you work?: The starting point is always a freehand drawing, followed by a digital scan of the image. I work in layers, juxtaposing traditional and digital methods. My favourite techniques are watercolour and Indian ink. For interior decorations I use acrylics.
How do you approach commissioned work?: When working on commission, I feel like a translator. I translate client's needs, wishes, briefs. I have to stay within given limits, while remaining myself. After all, I have been sought for who I am, for what I do. It's a form of mediation which I enjoy.
How would you describe your connection to the world of high fashion?: I work for, not in, fashion. It’s a dynamic and very stimulating world with so many resources and ideas. From an artistic point of view, it’s challenging because my work has a far-reaching impact. My drawings will have their own life and purpose, and be part of bigger narrative.
Is there a memorable moment in your professional life?: I would say two moments. My very first assignment for Fiorucci is the first, and my life-changing collaboration with Prada for the Minimal Baroque Sunglasses Collection. These two projects brought enormous change in my life and had a strong emotional impact on me. I went quite suddenly from anonymity to being published worldwide.

Andrea Tarella is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2010