To celebrate the arrival of Spring and our Samaritaine Colore Paris theme, the artist draws her “Bidules” in the store and on objects. A conversation between the artist and Yann Wattel, Image Director at Samaritaine, on the topic of this cheerful and energized collaboration.
Itzko, could you tell us about your world?
“When I was little, I would watch a lot of cartoons, like Gumball and Adventure Time, and I wanted to replicate this type of artistry, to tell a story. Then I went to Penninghen, where I developed my graphic style. Everything starts with a set of cylindrical shapes that I assemble to create characters, which I call “Bidules”. They’re all different when I start out, and I don’t know what I’m going to end up creating. The shapes are round and soft. I want them to be easily understandable. Everyone can have their own interpretation.”
What is your creative process?
“I try to maintain the instinctive aspect as much as possible! That’s why I use Posca, as I can’t draw over it. Once a line is drawn, I have to keep it. I often begin with the head, then I go into a meditative state in order to stay on that initial track. If I think too much, the drawing becomes weird and not as honest. The fact that my work can resonate with others and across generations also motivates me. It’s interactive art, it spreads joy… It’s alive!”
Yann, why was Itzko the obvious choice for this season?
“Naturally, we wanted someone who works with color, but what’s important to us is to promote younger generations of artists. I like the notion that a department store can be a place for artistic discovery! Itzko perfectly embodies what we wish to convey, including thinking outside the box, which is a key part of Samaritaine. Itzko’s instinctive approach reflected what we were looking for.”
Which works of art and experiences are you going to offer at the department store?
Itzko: “I’m drawing on two store windows during a live painting session. I’m placing my drawings on various pieces at Samaritaine, creating stickers, and offering workshops to customize specific pieces with personalized “Bidules”. I would like to invite visitors into my imagination! There will be “Bidules” almost everywhere, of course, and Mr. Peacock, created especially for Samaritaine. Handsome, majestic, and intriguing… This creature can’t help but be inspiring!”
Yann Wattel: “Our wish is to allow others to discover Itzko, and to create an experience at Samaritaine with this artist. She has a dedicated space next to the Conciergerie, to which she has added her creative touch, and where visitors can come to meet her. Itzko’s art is playful and accessible, which corresponds to Samaritaine’s DNA and our desire that the store be open to everyone.”
Samaritaine yellow takes center stage this season. What does this color represent to you?
Itzko: “It’s my favorite color! Yellow gives off energy; you can’t help but notice it. It’s cheerful and sunny. It embodies the message that Samaritaine wishes to convey.”
Yann Wattel: “It has always been the department store’s hallmark color! As Itzko said, it’s an energizing color. As the sunny days return, leaving behind a gray Paris, this yellow in the windows and the store will infuse it with a vibrant spirit. A truly fresh look!”
Live Painting Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 February from 1 p.m
Workshops every Saturday until April 4, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
