Marco Marella: An Evolving World of Colour and Form

Marco Marella was born in Venice, Italy. He briefly studied painting and etching at an art school in the city and attended an illustration course in London. He sees these periods of study as part of a much broader education through experience and considers himself largely self-taught.

A varied path into illustration

Before becoming an illustrator, Marco held a range of jobs, from working as a trainee aboard a cargo ship to serving as an army officer. He began his illustration career in 1988, when only the fax was available and digital tools did not yet exist.

He went on to illustrate for Italy’s major magazines and newspapers, as well as numerous publications abroad. His work has appeared in magazines and on book covers in the United States, the United Kingdom and France. Drawing maps and illustrating recipes are particular pleasures.

His commissions have also encompassed advertising, educational materials and packaging, alongside greeting cards, calendars, wrapping paper and textile patterns. His work has received awards from illustrators’ associations in Italy and the United Kingdom and has appeared in American illustration annuals.

Experience opening up new directions

Marco’s style has evolved over the years in response to changing trends and the demands of different commissions. His move towards fine art grew out of that accumulated experience and a desire to explore new perspectives.

A settled routine has never suited him. Drawing on what he has learned while continuing to test new possibilities is part of his approach. Shifting his focus towards artwork made to be displayed felt like a natural progression.

Encounters with art in Venice

Experiencing art is a starting point for Marco’s ideas. Venice, the city where he was born and still lives, offers countless encounters with art from the past. The city itself is a place to explore it, while the Biennale provides opportunities to engage with contemporary work from around the world.

His practice develops within this setting, with access to both historical and contemporary art. Encounters with nature and the experiences of daily life also help spark new ideas.

Bringing years of experience to digital work

Marco spent decades working with paint and pencils, and at one stage combined painting with collage. That practical knowledge of different materials forms the foundation of the work he makes today.

He now draws primarily on a tablet. Digital tools have expanded his freedom to experiment and the range of possibilities available to him. With fine art now the main focus of his practice, he creates work to be shared as art prints.