” It is in our capacity to distinguish and to differentiate images that allows beauty to subsist. The definition of beauty is shattered by society and is reborn in art.” Elisabetta Fantone

Elisabetta Fantone is a multidisciplinary artist who launched her career as a television performer.  She is now an established visual artist and actor.  Her artistic side is versatile and her several aspirations for the future make her an inspiring woman. 

Being Italian-Canadian, born in Montreal, and raised in Italy, Fantone has always demonstrated, from a young age, creative abilities.  Today, she has celebrity clients such as the Kardashians and Celine Dion.  Her artwork has been exposed inside in countries around the world. 

We met with her during a public appearance she had in an art gallery that represents her work in Old Montreal. 

How did you evolve in the artist you are today from when you were young?

At first, my parents had trouble accepting the fact that I wanted to be a professional artist but now they are very proud.  I have always been artistic in different ways and interested in different art forms so I am happy that today I can have different careers in what I love.

Can you describe to us what are the processes that you go through to create a piece of artwork?

First of all, I paint portraits of people who inspire me. It can be their music, their work, but I need a stimulus that comes from what the person has accomplished. Then, I start researching.  I look at pictures of them and analyze their clothes and surroundings, and look for images that speak to me.  Finally, for the backgrounds, I like to paint something that fits the personality of the person.  For example, Twiggy’s portrait has a very 60s vibe which really speaks to me.  I love that era.   Also, I tend to paint at night and listen to music while my husband and child are sleeping.  It’s the only way I don’t get distracted and can concentrate.

What is your fondest memory of living in Italy?

My home! My house is in a small village in Macchiagodena, Incoronata (Campobasso).  I have fond memories of the house we lived in.  In fact, we still own it.  I haven’t been in a few years but I would love to bring my daughter there.  My room there has been left the same way it was when I was a child and it’s a special feeling to go back.

Also, I love the city of Florence as well. It’s my favorite city. There is so much art, history, and architecture, it’s just so beautiful.

As a vegan, do you cook Italian food? 

I make a killer risotto.  (laughs) I love mushrooms and like to include them in my cuisine.  I also make really good gnocchi.  I learned by myself.  When I was younger and my Mom wanted to teach me, I was really stubborn but now, I am proud of cooking some of these vegan Italian dishes.

How do you connect your Italian roots in your life today?

Many, many of my friends are from Italy. I live in Miami and a lot of Italians live there.  It’s great to speak Italian with them and keep in touch with my roots.  Also, I only speak Italian to my two-year-old daughter.  We want her to learn French, English, and Italian.

What would you like the public to know about your work as an artist that is often misunderstood?

“When I started, I was told (from old publicists and people in the industry) that I could not have multiple careers as an artist. I received constant negative feedback.  Today, I have success in various artistic careers, and I want to inspire people to do what they want as I did.  Today, more than ever. It’s definitely possible.” – Elisabetta Fantone

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