"Stefania Russo, a self-taught Italian Traditional Fantasy/Gothic artist, creates expressive and strongly sensual art that combines pain, hunger, lust and strength" - The WallBreakers
The existence
Behind the name Illusorya (or LadyFanhir, for those who knew me from the beginning), you'll find Stefania Russo. Self-taught, I define myself as an indie artist in the field of traditional illustration. Born in 1984, based in the countryside of Northwest Italy, I graduated as a fashion operator and spent a large part of my life in the world of antique furniture restoration.
As self-defense, from the first signs of a future and consolidated mental and physical breakdown, I abandoned my previous experiences and focused on Art. Drawing inspiration from my own and others' existences, I translate fragments of human life, fragility, and resilience through the most elegant and dreamlike form of Dark Grotesque.
Behind the mask
The name Illusorya stems from the concept of creating seductive works that appear simple at first glance but are brimming with subtle symbolic details, allowing for a deceptive vision, much like the human mind and its masks.
"Motivation" is my sole academic mentor, leading me to portray against the canonical artistic rule of "beauty," encouraging the acceptance of humanity's face. I predominantly depict the female gender, as well as portraits of queer and androgyne individuals.
Most of my works are created "alla prima" and on formats not exceeding 30x40cm, favoring watercolors, tools with an anarchic mood, much like these emotional visions.
Indie reality
I currently work as an independent artist, painting personal projects or on commission . My works have been exhibited in group shows in galleries overseas, and published in several international publications and projects. I also regularly participate in fairs and markets.
In 2016, together with the Swedish artist Sandra Hultsved, I founded Memento Tea Gallery dedicated to the genre Dark & Grotesque, where a large number of national and international painters and sculptors participated in the project. Memento Tea Gallery is currently on hiatus for logistical reasons.
I recently opened my atelier to the public , giving people the opportunity to visit and purchase my creations in person.
Freedom is embracing one's vulnerabilities and resilience.
Freedom is feeling your heart safe, as if within the welcoming walls of home.
Freedom is breaking the chains of prejudice and contemplating all that is forever imprinted on canvas, in a dance of dreaminess and sensuality, colours and shapes.
