About Olimpia Zagnoli
Born in 1984 in Montecchio Emilia, a small town in Northern Italy, Olimpia Zagnoli has become one of the most distinctive figures in contemporary illustration. Known for her bold colors and stylized curves, Zagnoli blends artistic heritage with modern storytelling through her unmistakable visual language.
A Creative Legacy Rooted in Family
Raised in an artistic household—her father a photographer, her mother a multidisciplinary artist, and her sister a costume designer—Zagnoli grew up surrounded by inspiration. This creative legacy was celebrated in the 2023 exhibition ZaLiZaZa. Inventario di famiglia, highlighting their shared visual vocabulary and collaborative energy.
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A Signature Style in Contemporary Illustration
Zagnoli’s artwork is instantly recognizable: fluid forms, vibrant palettes, and joyful compositions that draw from pop culture, 1960s design, and influences such as Bruno Munari and Saul Bass. Her style has evolved from academic references to a personal visual language, establishing her among the most prominent women in art today.
From Editorials to Global Brands
Zagnoli’s client list includes prestigious names such as the New York Times, The New Yorker, Barilla, Apple, Dior, and Prada. Her ability to adapt her vision to editorial and commercial contexts makes her a leading woman in art whose creativity shapes culture and communication.
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NYC Subway Poster: An International Breakthrough
A defining moment came in 2016 when Zagnoli created a poster for the New York City subway system. The illustration of all five boroughs, featured an Afro-haired woman with oversized glasses reflecting the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge. This work amplified her global presence and cemented her status as an international voice in contemporary illustration.
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A Milan-based artist with Global Influence
Although Zagnoli is based in Milan, she reaches audiences exhibiting her work in Tokyo, Paris, and Los Angeles. For her global reach, event organizers often invite her to speak in public. These events are often topics related to women in illustration and women in art. By doing this she shapes the global narrative on gender and creativity.
Beyond Illustration: A Multidisciplinary Visual Language
Zagnoli extends her creativity across multiple mediums—producing prints, textiles, sculptures, and neon pieces. Her visual world transcends traditional formats, affirming her identity as a woman in art who breaks boundaries between illustration, design, and fine art.
The Voice of a New Generation of Italian Artists
As her career flourishes, Olimpia Zagnoli represents a vibrant, visionary generation of Italian artists. With color, form, and narrative, she proves that being a woman in art today means rewriting visual culture—and owning the spotlight.
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