Story & Lesson Highlights with Grace Federighi of Chicago

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Grace Federighi. Check out our conversation below.

Grace, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Music has always been a constant source of joy and inspiration in my life. Over the years, I have been collecting vinyl albums that spark nostalgia, shift my mood, or awaken emotions that only music can reach. At times, I will play a record repeatedly, embracing the comfort of its familiarity and connection to the work I am creating. We are, without a doubt, a music family. Both of my boys are musicians, and together we embrace the vibrant music scene in Chicago. When I am not painting, drums vibrating through my walls (and in my coffee) and the sound of the electric guitar bring me joy as I flip through my art magazines.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
When I think about how I arrived to where I am today, I think of my days in high school. As a young girl growing up in Kraków, I spent quality time with my mother, an artist herself, who taught me the fundamentals of art and even how to weave white clovers into head wreaths. But it was in high school where my creative curiosity truly began to expand. In art class, I discovered photography and began pushing its boundaries. With the encouragement of my teacher, who celebrated experimentation and individuality, I spent hours in the darkroom and staged imaginative scenes. I explored locations to capture a mood and convinced my friends to climb trees or dress in handmade costumes to bring my ideas to life.

Eventually, this experimentation led me indoors. I used makeshift lighting from household lamps in my college dorm’s closet to cast dramatic shadows across my models’ skin. The next step in my artistic journey was the enrollment in a live figure drawing class, where I explored the expressive power of charcoal. Soon after, models began posing in my condo for live drawing sessions and staged photo scenes. I produced moments that evolved into surreal, dreamlike images.

Present day, I work with models photographing similar scenes from which I use as inspiration for my work. This year has been one of self-reflection, of letting go and rediscovering what truly moves me in my work. My latest piece, Subconscious, revealed what has been present all along: the surreal. While my paintings remain abstract and elegant, they feel whole when infused with edge and mystery. The pull toward the surreal, the connection to the unknown, the dreamlike, and the familiar yet foreign, is guiding my evolution as an artist.

There is a quiet comfort in knowing my younger self has walked this path before. It gives me the confidence to continue working on an upcoming photography collection and to explore non-figurative abstraction. I will continue to produce figure work, as I recognize how my past continues to inform and deepen my present.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
One of my greatest critics and teachers is my mother, who is also an artist. I often call her to discuss the evolution of my work, and with her insight, any block or doubt quickly disappears. From her, I have learned to let go and to move with my work rather than against it. I now allow the process to guide me, taking greater risks and creating with less inhibition.

I have also learned a great deal about my work through the perspectives of others. Each comment and critique reveals something new about the work itself and the way it exists in the world. Hearing perspectives about my work from gallerists, artists, and curators alongside feedback from collectors, friends, and art enthusiasts, can form a shared narrative of opinion. These insights can help guide me professionally, yet at times the advice may conflict with my instincts. I have learned to pause, evaluate, and decide whether to step beyond my comfort zone or remain true to my vision.

The most affirming moments come when someone I deeply respect echoes what I already feel about my work, especially when others question my process or intent. Ultimately, finding one’s community is essential, through it, we grow and continue to flourish.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to believe in herself completely. As a child, I was confident and resilient, yet I somehow believed I could only reach ninety five percent of my potential. I thought being close to what I wanted was enough, but that mindset kept me from going further. I am still working on this today by changing the language in my mind and the words I speak to shift the outcome. Belief shapes reality, and when we truly trust ourselves, everything else begins to align.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Speaking the truth with respect and kindness saves time and moves us closer to our goals. Rejection and differing opinions can be difficult to face, yet clarity about where we stand allows us to pivot and progress. It is not always easy to voice our thoughts or hear what we were not hoping for, but when we speak honestly or stay open to uncomfortable feedback, we exchange something invaluable—understanding and growth.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I approach each painting fully invested, without expectation of praise. When I begin a new piece, my focus is entirely on the process and the way the work evolves. As it takes shape, I check in with myself to see if what I am creating aligns with what I am feeling. Some works sell or show at an exhibition or collaboration, while others may live in my studio for a period of time. Regardless of their placement, I remain in constant motion, driven by creativity. Praise and feedback are always appreciated and cherished as they do give a boost of confidence. But, if I do not create, it feels like I have skipped a breath. Creating is the only way I feel truly grounded and fulfilled.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://gracefederighiart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracefederighiart
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/GraceFederighiArt