Caroline Cutaia - multidisciplinary artist from Marseille

Already a big thank you to Queen B - for introducing me to Caroline... Amazing meeting where I discovered Caroline's bright and smart universe and highly inspired by the South of France.

My absolute favorite: the collection “habiter en vacances”, those who know me know!

So I went to see Caroline in her workshop (busy busy), and I told her about my t-shirt project.

We talked, we understood each other (or not!) and a few weeks later I discover the superb illustration and design created by Caroline.

Hello Caroline, can you tell us about your journey and your story?

I studied decorative arts in Strasbourg with the firm intention of making objects. And very quickly, I was redirected towards photography and graphic communication, because I was comfortable with the design of space on a page, a screen, etc. (and a t-shirt today! ). Now, I work with several different mediums: but I'm very comfortable with clay, my favorite medium. Finally, I have a global thought around the image and its narrative potential.

Marseille: why how when?

I'm from Marseille! Coming from a large Italian family who emigrated to Marseille, I traveled a lot during my youth and later in my work. For me, Marseille was obvious and I moved there in 2017: to return to my roots, to be close to nature. Marseille is the practical and emotional solution, close to the natural elements while being urban.

On our superb illustration (link tee), can you share your inspiration and the creative process with us?

I started with a long discussion with Charlotte to understand what was inside her and to understand her brand Layer&plouf - her motivations. I looked for the common denominator. The elements of inspiration: the sea, the island of Frioul and the Gabians that I see from my window. I start from what is closest to me. I was hesitant about the drawing, and so I opted for a frame graphic, a drawing within a drawing. This allows us to consider several variations of this graphic thanks to this outline which is also part of the illustration: bag, card, poster.

If you had to describe Layer&Plouf, what would you say?

I would say comforting, daring and also that Layer&Plouf is a source of motivation. Although it is not easy to swim in the sea in winter, once you practice it becomes obvious and that it is easy, necessary and essential. Being well equipped is ultimately as important as being well surrounded.

We're already thinking about our next collab - any secrets to share?

I want to play with seasonality, with each season having its own design. I would also really like to think about a must-have accessory.