Donatella Violi was born in Ovada, Italy and later moved to Milan before settling in Reggio Emilia, where she currently resides and works as an artist. Her self-taught artistic journey began in her early years due to familial circumstances, fostering her creativity as a means of escape. Despite facing obstacles, including being prohibited from attending Art School at the age of 13 due to intoxication with colors and solvents, Violi pursued her passion through attending the Matilde di Canossa Teacher Training Institute while also taking courses in graphic design and engraving.
Inspired by renowned artists such as H. Bosch, M. Grunewald, and R. Magritte, as well as fascinated by the alchemy of color and gesturality of artists like Pollock and Tapies, Violi's paintings represent a personal journey devoid of defined space-time references. Through her work, she seeks to create an atmosphere of "waiting," inviting observers to meditate. Literature, particularly the works of Italo Calvino, influences her creations, adding depth to her exploration of themes like travel and imagination.
For Violi, making art is akin to breathing, a sentiment echoed in Chagall's belief that art is born when one opens oneself to the world. She believes that art has been her salvation and has made it her philosophy, both for personal fulfillment and societal intervention. Violi's preferred technique is mixed media, with oil painting being among her favorites for its vibrant colors. She often works on large surfaces, allowing the creative process to evolve naturally, resulting in works where interpretation is subjective and discovery is akin to embarking on a journey.
She has collaborated with the BESHARAT ARTS FOUNDATION on projects such as "ART IN SCHOOLS" and "FACES OF INNOCENCE."