Constanza Piaggio

Visual artist, born in Buenos Aires and based in Paris since 2010, Constanza Piaggio works mainly with photography and film as experimental media. Having trained in photography and cinema in Argentina, she builds her projects from theoretical research that organically leads to series of works that respond to each other through echoes and a subtle system of variation. She combines her technical requirements with a unique and personal approach that mixes her pictorial references and her intimate environment. This sometimes self-referential point of view also calls upon philosophical concepts and literary references that nourish her work. In her recent series, image manipulations manifest a desire to appropriate reality, matter and photographic texture. Her works are shown in solo and group exhibitions around the world and are part of prestigious public and private collections. She has also been the recipient of several awards and residencies.

Constanza Piaggio has also methodically established a collaborative approach with a network of professional artists. Since 2016, she has co-directed the space dedicated to contemporary art "Julio Artist-run Space" located in the 20th arrondissement of Paris. This space is now a reference. It stands out for its programming that promotes relationships between artists from the French and Latin American scene and inter-generational mixes.

constanzapiaggio.com

Why did you choose Paris after your studies in Buenos Aires?

When I decided to move to Paris, I had already started a promising career in Buenos Aires. At that time the country was doing well and living elsewhere was absolutely not part of my plans. In the end, it was love that made me decide to move to Paris even though I knew I would have to start from scratch. I no longer had a network or work logistics, but I must say that I already knew this city and I have always had a special affinity with it and I do not regret my choice…

Color plays an important role in Valentine’s work, and in yours too. What is your relationship with it? Were you drawn to the color palette used by Valentine?

Color is always an element of inspiration in my approach. I use it in a very organic but conscious way because colors have an important power of communication. It's the same with clothes, it's our way of presenting ourselves to the world and transmitting our emotions, our energy. I like the way Valentine mixes very soft and natural tones with vibrant and singular bursts giving an original look.

There is a great sensuality and femininity in your works, the feel of the materials used by Valentine also has this sensuality, were you sensitive to this dimension of the Valentine Gauthier wardrobe?

Yes, strongly because the materials will be in contact with our skin throughout the day and it is very important to feel both protected and sensual. We feel right away that they have a beautiful quality and it is a real pleasure to wear them.

  • Valentine guides her collection choices based on the ecological impact it will have. It seems that nature also has an important place in your work, what about it? Do your choices in purchasing your clothes take this impact into account, is it a value that you hold dear?

    Ecology has always been one of the main causes for me; I have felt concerned since I was little. During my entire adolescence I was an activist in associations to protect the environment and I continue to get involved in different ways to improve the global situation and to have a less negative impact on our planet. Of course, I can still do a lot more, especially as a city dweller, that's why I always try to inform myself and improve my consumption despite my small budget. I remember when I read "No logo" by Naomi Klein, it changed my view of the fashion industry. I accepted Valentine's proposal because in addition to loving her designs, I respect her commitments.