Xiluva
Photographer: Elena Testa
1. What significant life experiences or events have influenced and shaped your artistic vision?
The experiences that have influenced my artistic vision largely relate to my childhood in a small Italian village in the middle of nature. Living here in fact led me to develop a spiritual and profound relationship with the natural elements, which I always look for in my shoots; whether flowers, trees or water sources, I feel the need to relate the subject to its surroundings. So when I was able to shoot for the brand Xiluva, whose name means flower, to indicate a strong and confident person, I couldn't help but be excited.
2. Collaboration often sparks fresh creativity. Can you share an example of a collaboration that led to an unexpected and exciting artistic outcome?
In this respect, I must point to the work done for the Xiluva editorial as an example, as every member of the team was highly motivated and passionate, creating impressive synergies. I expected the results to be satisfactory as everything was planned down to the last detail, but the outcome far exceeded my expectations. In fact, I was lucky enough to work with people who were not only competent, but also extremely proactive, inspired and enthusiastic. For me, an editorial is successful not only if the photos are interesting, but above all if the experience conveys something to those who experience it, because I believe that art should convey emotions. In the case of Xiluva, at the end of the shoot everyone was excited and enthusiastic, not only because of the good work they had done, but above all because of the mutual sharing and emotional connection that had developed, which naturally influenced the artistic result.
3. Walk us through a specific project that challenged your creative boundaries. How did you approach it, and what did you learn from the experience?
I believe that the challenge which tested me most artistically was my first studio project. As a self-taught photographer who had always shot outdoors, capturing a successful studio session seemed like a rather daunting task. Nevertheless, I rolled up my sleeves and did everything I could to be well-prepared, studying by myself the technical aspects and meticulously refining every detail of the shoot. The result was truly satisfying and has motivated me to continuously hone both my artistic and technical skills, areas I am still working on today. What I learned from the experience undoubtedly revolves around believing more in myself, because with determination, one can achieve even what seems unimaginable or too distant.
4. In the ever-evolving art world, what do you believe sets your work apart and makes it unique or groundbreaking?
I am convinced that what sets my work apart and makes it unique is my commitment to creating projects that are as original and intricate as possible, bringing the forms of my imagination to life. This goal is not always easy, as nearly everything has been seen today. However, it is precisely for this reason that I make sacrifices to shape my ideas, no matter how difficult they may be to realize, rather than taking a simpler, already well-trodden path. For this reason, I always strive to introduce original scenographic elements that create a contrast with the surrounding context, such as placing an armchair in the middle of a meadow, for example.
5. As you reflect on your journey, are there any specific goals or milestones you've set for your artistic career in the coming years?
Looking ahead, my aspirations are centered on expanding my presence in the fashion and beauty photography industry while continuing to collaborate with talented professionals who share a passion for pushing creative boundaries. A key goal is to develop and produce impactful campaigns for fashion and beauty brands, elevating their visual identity while showcasing my own evolving style. I am excited about the possibility of working internationally, capturing different aesthetics, and exploring new ways to express beauty and fashion through my lens. In addition, I’m committed to growing my social media presence as I see it as a valuable way to share my creative journey, engage with other industry professionals, and generate new opportunities.
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The term "Xiluva" is of Mozambican origin, being a word which signifies "flower" in the local language. This term encapsulates the fundamental values of the Xiluva Design brand, as conceived by the designer Zulfa Ramalheiro. Indeed, the word Xiluva is used to denote an individual of strength and confidence, qualities which are reflected in the brand's designs. The concept of the editorial was to translate the brand essence into a concrete form by associating various creations with flowers and nature. This approach was adopted to demonstrate that Xiluva embodies a duality of qualities– being simultaneously delicate and powerful, and exhibiting a remarkable diversity that mirrors the multifaceted nature of every woman.
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Photographer: Elena Testa
Wardrobe Stylist: Rachele Crocioni
Model: @CRISALIDA__C
Makeup Artist: Nicol Mua
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FASHION: @xiluvadesign.it by Zulfa Ramalheiro
JEWELLERY: @wunderkammer_jewels