Olimpia Zagnoli takes us on an illustrated trip through 80s Italy at Nicer Tuesdays

“I don’t remember when I began drawing exactly but it was a long time ago”, explained illustrator Olimpia Zagnoli, opening the evening at Nicer Tuesdays September. Joining us from her home of Milan, the beloved illustrator spoke through the numerous forms her illustrative work can take, from illustrated plates and pillows to collaborations with fashion brands to children’s books.

However, Olimpia’s talk explained the importance of personal work, explaining how crafting her own practice is always on her mind, particularly when she gets to consider how her work can infiltrate a space when exhibited,

Her most recent exhibition, Cuore di Panna in Los Angeles, saw Olimpia illustrate visuals that were close to home. Taking inspiration from her childhood in 80s Italy, Olimpia illustrated the popping high colour of it all, from fizzy drink packaging to cafe signs. The result was a series that jumps off the page, screen and in the exhibition context, the wall too. It’s a guilty pleasure series, and one that suits the illustrator’s work perfectly, both sensual and overly sweet at the same time.