Valeria Morasso
Valeria Morasso (b. 1973, Genoa) is a self-taught contemporary Italian artist known for her textured, material-driven works. Working with oil, acrylic, plaster, and wood, she explores themes of nature and urban life. Since 2015, Morasso has participated in numerous group exhibitions and is set to hold two solo exhibitions in Milan in 2024. Her art combines various media, such as plaster, newspaper, and recycled materials, to create multisensory paintings that engage both sight and touch. Inspired by her childhood summers spent in the countryside, Morasso’s work reflects her desire to capture the tactile essence of the natural world.
Mixed media
Mixed media
A Journey of Passion and Persistence.
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Early Inspiration and Artistic Roots
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Art has been a part of Valeria Morasso’s life since childhood. Despite her deep passion for creativity, she initially pursued a career in tech to secure a stable job, unable to afford to be a full-time artist. However, her path was forever changed when she encountered an inspiring art teacher in her youth, who encouraged her to pursue a career in the arts. This pivotal moment rekindled her passion for art and set her on the path to becoming a professional artist.
Overcoming Creative Blocks
Inspiration is essential for an artist, and Valeria has faced her share of creative challenges. At times, she found herself completely stuck, struggling to produce new work. To overcome this, she turned to nature for solace. Long walks in the outdoors became her way of reconnecting with herself and reigniting her creative spark. “Nature helps me a lot,” she says, finding peace and fresh perspectives that would inspire her next projects.
A Pivotal Solo Exhibition
One of Valeria’s most memorable moments as an artist was her first solo exhibition. Though it was held in an unconventional space—a pilates center rather than a traditional gallery—she was incredibly proud to see her work displayed for the first time. “I was able to fill all the walls with my paintings,” she reflects, and the audience, including the women from her pilates class, made the experience even more rewarding. It was a significant milestone in her artistic journey.
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Evolution of Style and Materials
Valeria’s style has evolved considerably over the years. What began as figurative work gradually transformed into more abstract expressions. Alongside this shift in style, her choice of materials also expanded. She started with classic oil paints but later embraced experimental media such as newspapers and plaster. This evolution reflects her desire to explore new techniques and push the boundaries of her artistic expression.
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​Lessons Learned from Setbacks
Valeria faced disappointment when exhibitions drew little audience, but social media proved a powerful tool. “Use different channels to promote your art,” she advises—an essential lesson in reaching wider audiences.
Insights for Emerging Artists
Her key advice: work hard, connect with other artists, and watch out for fake curators. Sharing ideas while staying true to your vision is crucial.
Sources of Support and Inspiration
Her biggest supporters were her mother and a late art teacher who believed in her early on. Their encouragement continues to inspire her today.
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Advice for Emerging Artists
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“Believe in yourself and your art,” she says. Take in constructive feedback, but don’t be discouraged by negativity. Confidence and persistence are key.
Defining Success as an Artist
Success, for Valeria, is about emotional connection. “It’s the ability to transmit emotions to people,” she says—not just recognition, but resonance.