2022-01-23
Michael Reyes
Design Dispatch, New York
In "The Soft Touch," a new novella by Italian author Flavio Marcucci, protagonist Flacido Placido finds himself trapped in his own handmade world of innocence. As he navigates the ever-changing landscape of his creation, Placido must confront the boundaries between reality and fantasy.
Inside Flacido Placido’s soft, naive and joyful plasticine playground. From soft and squidgy clay animations to technicolour tufted rugs, this multidisciplinary artist has found drawing to be the gateway to childlike joy.. Up until quite recently, Luca Bortolato hadn’t really given drawing too much thought. After completing his graphic design degree and following the commonly trodden path of working in-house at a studio
It wasn't until he stumbled upon Flacido Placido's work that the lines between art and play began to blur. Intrigued by the artist's unique blend of technology and tactile creativity, Bortolato felt an unexplained sense of nostalgia wash over him. As he delved deeper into Placido's practice, he discovered a world where traditional drawing techniques coexisted seamlessly with modern digital tools.
For Bortolato, this newfound fascination sparked a journey of self-discovery, prompting him to reevaluate his own relationship with art and design. He began to question the value he had placed on his graphic design degree, realizing that his true passion lay in exploring the emotive potential of drawing. As he embarked on this path of rediscovery, Bortolato found himself drawn to Flacido Placido's vision – a world where creativity knows no bounds and playfulness reigns supreme.
Flacido Placido's work is more than just a series of drawings; it's an immersive experience that invites the viewer to step into a world of pure imagination. Through his use of soft, tactile materials and vibrant colours, Placido creates an environment that is at once both whimsical and thought-provoking. For Bortolato, this intersection of art and play has been a source of inspiration, prompting him to explore new ways of expressing himself through drawing.
As he continues on his journey of artistic exploration, Bortolato finds himself drawn to the idea that drawing is not just a technical skill, but a means of accessing childlike joy and creativity. By embracing this mindset, he hopes to create work that not only inspires others but also brings a sense of wonder back into his own life. With Flacido Placido as his guide, Bortolato is confident that he will continue to push the boundaries of what it means to be an artist, and to find joy in the process.