Welcome to the second edition of our Artist Spotlights series, where we celebrate the talented contemporary artists we’ve had the privilege of collaborating with on commercial and hospitality projects.
This month, we’re thrilled to feature Elidea Arts, a contemporary artist whose distinctive style and creative vision have inspired us for years. Originally from Milan, Elidea masterfully blends classic photography with mixed media—paper, gold leaf, acrylics, and paint—creating works that are both visually striking and deeply thought-provoking.
Her impressive portfolio includes commercial art installations aboard Carnival Cruise Line ships and even a custom piece for a Tiffany & Co. location in Puerto Rico. At LS Art Consulting, we’ve had the pleasure of framing dozens of Elidea’s pieces for clients across various industries, transforming spaces with her evocative art.
We’re excited to share a special interview with Elidea, where she reflects on her creative process and the impact of art for hospitality spaces and environments.
Keep reading for an inspiring look into Elidea’s world of art.
1. Can you tell us about the pivotal moment when you knew art would be your career?
I can honestly say that there was no single moment when art entered my life. Creativity has always been a part of me; as a child, I would spend hours creating, and it was a pastime that brought me great joy. As I grew older, I realized that this simple feeling of happiness was actually my primary way of expressing my thoughts, emotions, and ideas. That’s why my art is a blend of different techniques I have cherished and learned throughout all my life. Graphic design, photography, and art, for me, form one powerful channel of communication, capable of evoking emotions not only for myself but for others as well.
2. How do you know when a piece is finished? Is it more of a feeling or a technical decision depending on where the final piece will be located?
When I begin a new piece of art, I already have a clear vision of the final result in my mind. However, what I initially envision often evolves into something different by the end. Art is a continuous process, and there are times when I feel unsatisfied, uncertain whether the creative journey for that piece is truly finished. That’s why I sometimes step away from my work for a few days, returning with a fresh perspective. It’s all about the feeling of harmony: when the final balance is achieved, when the colors and shapes seamlessly come together into one cohesive image, only then can I consider my work complete.
3. Is there a particular piece in your portfolio that holds a special meaning to you, and can you share it’s story?
Every new collection is always my favorite, as the most recent one feels the closest to me both emotionally and in terms of personal satisfaction. However, if I had to choose, I would say that more than a single painting or collection, the technique of collage with gold leaf has been the most significant element of my artistic journey and the one I hold in the highest regard.
This was the technique that truly marked the beginning of my artistic career, it was when I began to study and delve into this technique that I realized art would always be an integral part of my life and personal growth. Discovering my own unique and personal expression gave me the confidence to believe in myself and my creative abilities. The way it was appreciated allowed me to see my art not just as a passion, but as a career I could truly rely on.
4. What role do you think art plays in commercial/hospitality environments?
I believe that art is and should be an essential part of our lives and the spaces we inhabit. I have always been a strong advocate for art programs in schools, starting from early childhood, as I consider the creative process just as important as scientific and literary subjects in developing every individual’s mind.
Art is a part of our daily lives; we are surrounded by the beauty of art in all its forms of expression—paintings, sculptures, music, movies, and poetry. However, it’s important to recognize its beauty, and this is something we must teach new generations from their early years.
I think that art in commercial and hospitality environments is essential because its stimuli and harmony can help bring our thoughts back to a more beautiful vision of the world around us.
5. What drives you to continue creating?
I continue to create because I could never live without it; art is and will always be a part of my life. I wish for everyone to find a passion as fulfilling as my art is for me. Creating new collections is my way of expressing myself through new emotions and values I want to share.
Through my art, I’ve been able to convey important issues that are very close to my heart, such as the female world, the protection of wild animals, and the love for Mother Earth. I’m sure that, over time, I will uncover other themes to explore.
These are the driving forces that push me to discover new aspects of myself each time. When I see people connect with my work, when I realize someone else feels what I feel, that’s when I experience the greatest satisfaction—it’s the confirmation that this is my path.
1. If you could spend the day with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be?
Frida Kahlo. I visited her art studio, Casa Azul in Mexico City and would love to spend time with her, exploring her vision and personality.
2. Favorite artist/album/podcast/audiobook to listen to when creating?
I love music in general, old and new Italian songs, and when I need a little extra motivation, I enjoy listening to Mel Robbins’ podcasts.
3. Are you an early bird or night owl when it comes to creating?
I’m an early bird. Over the years, I’ve become a lover of early mornings. I adore the silence and the energy that come with the start of a new day.
4. Favorite color to create with?
The color gold features prominently in many of my artworks. I love how it enriches each project with light.
5. What’s one or two words you’d use to describe your art genre?
Mixmedia collage.
