Patrizia Grilli aka Trix is originally a native of Rome, Italy, where she studied Graphic Design until the age of 18. Shortly afterwards, Trix found herself settled in London where she soon became absorbed in the eclectic and multicultural atmosphere of early 90s London.
The thriving artistic and raving scene was to be the place where she first trained as a tattoo artist, executing custom designs and tattoos for international clients and developing a highly colourful style that can also be observed in her paintings. 
Almost 30 years after moving to London, Trix relocated to Thailand along with her husband and children where she began painting full time. 3 years after settling in Asia, Trix now has a gallery and studio in the heart of Phuket Art Village where she welcomes visitors from around
the world.
Trix is a self-taught artist on many levels and apart from the academic Graphic Design Diploma earned while living in Italy, everything since has been achieved from her love of art and self-determination to learn. Heavily influenced by the art she was exposed to in Italy and London, this has all combined to drive a desire to progress in her art journey and deepen her knowledge.
Patrizia’s preferred medium is oil paint, she enjoys playing with pearlescent and metallic hues and bright, vibrant colours. Trix has recently participated in art contests and collected two ‘Special Merit’ awards for her paintings Propeller and Dancing Octopus.
What made you want to become a painter?
Patrizia: I have always been into painting, most of the time as a hobby whenever I had free time from creating custom tattoo designs. After spending more than 20 years tattooing and moving to Thailand I saw an opportunity to develop and grow this passion on a professional level. It is quite different and in a way liberating to be able to paint on such a large scale rather than on the relatively small scale of tattooing and drawing on the skin.
How would you define your visual style?
Patrizia: I think my visual style has developed from a mix of influences I had throughout many years. Tattooing themes and symbolism, as well as artistic and graphic detailing styles all coexist in my artistic approach –recurring, interacting and contributing equally to my creative narrative. I enjoy using metallic hues and strong, radiant colours to emphasize dream-like worlds, so I would say this is a definite trait of my art. I love bringing to life feminine, powerful, controversial and spiritually charged women. To me, they represent a mirror into our subconscious (mine foremost), where we evaluate our relationship with ourselves and every other living organism around us. Rather than trying to address any particular issue, my artwork reflects earth and soul connections by evoking safe and ethereal places, inviting the viewer to observe themselves and speculate on the path of their earthy life. I would hope for the viewer to feel that invisible yet perceptible connection between us and the universe when looking at my paintings.
What are you inspired by? Where do you go for inspiration?
Patrizia: I get inspired by all living things; animals, plants, humans and our emotions, and other artists. And the sea- I definitely get inspired by the sea!
What is a little known fact you would like to share?
Patrizia: Most of the colours I use are still in pigment form, which means I mix them myself with oil and get to feel like an alchemist.
How does creating art makes you feel?
Patrizia: When I’m creating art I go through a range of emotions, these are the same whether I’m painting or tattooing. I mostly feel excitement especially when I start a new painting/tattoo and the first layer goes on. That’s when I start to get the feeling of how the finished piece will look like. It also fills me with calmness and a great sense of achievement. I certainly feel more accomplished as an artist overall since I expanded my skills into painting on a more professional level.
What is your creative process like?
Patrizia: I wouldn’t say that I have a definite creative process that is the same every time, sometimes I know what I’m going to do from the beginning and sometimes I don’t, but frequently I visualize an image that resonates with me in what looks like its finished form. From there I work my way backwards concentrating on the elements of imagery and symbolism that I want to incorporate. When ideas have taken their form I gather source material. The composition typically takes place straight on the canvas rather than on a sketchbook. Colour themes, nuances and general mood are generally decided quite early in the process. When I have all the elements I want, I take a step back and wait a few days before starting on the new piece. I do this to reflect and make sure I have everything in place before starting.
Do you do anything in particular to seal your art?
Patrizia: I usually apply the “oiling” layer when a painting is a touch dry. When they are thoroughly dry I apply varnish. I love how the varnish brings all that light and lustrous colours back to life. Sometimes a piece has sold prior to varnish.
What is your most recent piece of art that you have enjoyed working on the most?
Patrizia: I loved working on the hair clouds of “Lucid Geisha”, I got a bit lost for a few weeks doing them. I’m also really excited about what is on the easel now.
What are your plans for the future?
Patrizia: I want to develop a body of work, a substantial work that will truly represent my style. I also plan to do smaller work on upcycled wood as well as cooperation with The Fin Arts https://thefinarts.com/, a local shark protection organization, painting shark sculptures for shark conservation.
To find out more about Patrizia and her art please visit her:
Website
Thanks!