My name is Emma Gandolfi, and I'm an italian illustrator, currently based in Amsterdam. I've been always passionate about art and drawing, and that's why I decided to achieve my studies in art, first at the art high school in Reggio Emilia, and then at the Academy of Fine Arts of Bologna.

Another element that accompanied me during my whole life, due to my mum's passion, is plants, and my love for them. 

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During my academic years I developed my style and my artistic research, and I conceptualize the idea of The Fantastic Bestiary  which opened me a whole world and paved the way for my work.

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I enjoy working traditionally, with ink, makers and acrylics, and I'm obsessed by paper! I love to search for the most beautiful, natural textured, peculiar papers, or to dye it myself with coffee and natural dyes.

With a background as a lijstenmaker, I'm deeply fascinated by frames, and by the many different effects that different frames can give to the same piece. That's why I spend my free time thrifting, and looking for nice and unique frames for my pieces and art print.

I enjoy to take part to markets and fairs, to meet like minded and art passionated people, to share my vision and my creatures and find other surreal botany geeks like me. 

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Beside my personal art work, I'm open to collaboration and commission, both working traditionally or digitally. Whether it's to illustrate a book, some designs for your business, or your next tattoo, let's get in touch.

I will be happy to bring your idea to life and to leave you something unique.