Villa Soo

About Riccardo Lorenzo Fornoni

In the avant-garde works of the artist, architect and interior designer Riccardo Fornoni, reality is enlivened by the brush of surrealism. His aesthetic sensibility, coupled with his penchant for innovation, results in a blend of modern… Read more

Visit artist page follow artist

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

In the avant-garde works of the artist, architect and interior designer Riccardo Fornoni, reality is enlivened by the brush of surrealism. His aesthetic sensibility, coupled with his penchant for innovation, results in a blend of modern and eclectic design styles that take the viewer to dreamlike places. Fornoni’s artistry is a sophisticated synthesis between the palpable and the imaginable.
Architecture forms the cornerstone of Fornoni’s art: Like the harmonious balance found in Le Corbusier's creations, Fornoni unites vibrant colors with clean, geometric shapes, evoking a sense of nostalgia while firmly planting his work in contemporary soil. His admiration for the seamless integration of design with natural landscapes is akin to the principles of Luis Barragán, often materializing as a convergence of design and terrain, creating landscapes of surreal beauty reminiscent of Salvador Dalí’s dreamscapes.
Riccardo Fornoni’s signature fusion of mid-century modern design with contemporary surrealism has crystallized into a unique, distinctive style that commands high recognition value. His technical prowess is reflected in the graspable depth, the serene calmness, and the playful compositions that are brought to life through subtle lighting.
Crafted with the latest in 3D software, Fornoni’s pieces astonish with their realism, often leaving the viewer mesmerized when reality transcends into fantastical realms.
Riccardo Fornoni's acclaim has transcended borders, with global exhibitions from Paris to Tokyo and reputable clients like Christie’s London. Fornoni’s work is not merely seen; it is experienced, offering a gateway to an otherworldly fusion of the concrete and the imagined, inviting viewers to step to the edge of reality.

VITA

The studied artist is based in Italy. He has a diverse background in art, architecture, and design. Fornoni began his education at the Giulio Romano Art School, subsequently furthering his technical expertise by studying architecture at Politecnico di Milano. His professional experience started with internships at multiple architecture studios, providing him with practical industry insights. He eventually transitioned into freelancing which allowed him to delve deeper into the realm of 3D art.

INTERVIEW

Picasso once said, “you don’t make art, you find it.” Where do you find your art?
I find it mostly in life events, those really drove most of my artistic projects as in the beginning of the process is something more spiritual than technical. Once I start creating, I find it in how I feel when finding a particular idea or composition, when I realize that what I’m doing is working. When I see my imagination translating into a drawing.

From an idea to its materialization: How do you approach your work?
I start by selecting the right music as a first thing. Once a good atmosphere is surrounding me I start sketching the idea on paper, then I create the scene in 3D, playing with textures and lighting.

What is your favorite book?
I don’t have a favorite one, but I’ve found very funny “Supplemento al dizionario Italiano” by Bruno Munari.

Which artist would you like to have coffee with and what would you discuss?
Achille Castiglioni, I would love to discuss design processes and more in general about life.

How did you get into art?
I started by studying Art at Giulio Romano Art School first, then I got a more technical approach by studying architecture at Politecnico di Milano. From there I started working as an intern in some architecture studios in my city, then I decided to go freelance and to deeper into 3D art. Having lots of my grandpa’s artwork around the house also helped!

Who are the people in your surroundings that influence you?
My best friends and my family.

Imagine you have a time machine. Where would you go?
I would love to go in so many ages, but one that always fascinated me is London in the mid 19th century.

Other than art, what are you most passionate about?
Skateboarding, music and food.

What are you working on right now?
I’m working on a client project.