The Heroine’s Journey of Paola Hüller

What is the best thing I love about my job?

My work is not just a job; it’s the manifestation of my deepest passion. Every creation is a fusion of colors, shapes, and messages that I convey to people, allowing them to immerse themselves in a world that challenges reality. The opportunity to escape the mundane and enter new dimensions through art is a unique experience—a silent conversation with the viewer, an invitation to see the world from another perspective.

What is my idea of happiness?

Happiness is a difficult word to define, but I believe it resides in the harmony between being present in the “here and now” and being in tune with one’s creativity. I don’t think happiness is achieved through one single act, but through a continuous flow that allows us to find personal balance. When I am immersed in creation, that moment when the external world seems to disappear, I believe that’s where my form of happiness lies.

What is my greatest fear?

My greatest fear is related to the separation from the souls that, in this life, have ceased to inhabit a body. Death doesn’t frighten me—it’s simply a transformation, a natural passage. My true fear is not being able to reconnect with the souls of those I love, not being able to meet them again beyond this veil of reality. It’s a subtle fear, accompanying me whenever I think about the fragility of the earthly realm. My art is an attempt to preserve these invisible bonds, to leave a trace of who we really are, so that we can find each other one day, in eternity.

What is the trait I dislike most about myself?

I don’t believe there are traits of myself that I like more than others, nor that I dislike. I am convinced, as Carl Jung said, that “what we deny enslaves us, but what we accept transforms us.” We are all perfect in our imperfection, and every side of us—even the parts that sometimes seem dark or incomplete—contributes to making our essence unique. I’ve learned to like myself as I am, with all my contradictions, doubts, and fragilities, because these “sparks” of imperfection are what make us authentic and alive. As Osho said, “There are no mistakes, only experiments,” and every step on my path has been an experiment that taught me to embrace who I am, without fear of being all that I can be, even in my shadowed areas.

Who do I admire the most in my field?

Admiring those who have truly transformed art is essential for me. Damien Hirst, with his fusion of death and beauty, pushes us to reflect on obsession and human limits. Ai Weiwei, who combines art and activism in a universal language, has created a bridge between the world and social change. Marina Abramović, pioneer of performance, invites us to explore the depths of body and mind, transcending every physical and temporal boundary. Banksy, with his provocative touch, blends art and politics in a play of irony that shakes the system. And then Yayoi Kusama, whose cosmic vision has turned visual art into a symphony of colors and forms, an infinite reflection on the universe and the inner world. These are the true innovators, those who force us to see, think, and feel beyond the ordinary, leaving indelible marks in the history of art.

What is my greatest extravagance?

My greatest extravagance is the constant search for new sensory experiences. I love immersing myself in environments that stimulate sight, smell, and hearing. I tend to combine my works with sounds, lights, and scents to create unique, multidimensional experiences.

In what situation would I lie?

I hate lying—lies don’t belong to me. If I find myself in a difficult situation, I’d rather not respond than say something that isn’t true. Honesty and authenticity are fundamental values for me, both in life and in my work. Transparency is what allows me to maintain a genuine connection with others and stay true to my art.

What do I dislike the most about my work?

My work isn’t a “job” in the conventional sense; it is a passion that flows through me, a calling rooted in the essence of my being. There is nothing I “hate” in my creative process, but there is one reality that deeply unsettles me: the pollution of art by the market. Like in many other fields, people often focus exclusively on commerce, reducing art to a consumable object. This approach distorts its true meaning, killing the spontaneity, purity, and pursuit of beauty that should guide every creative expression. In a world where the “commodification” of culture is often more important than its authenticity, I find that many ideas and projects are reduced to products to be sold, rather than experiences to be lived. It disturbs me that the beauty, depth, and power of a work can be limited by a commercial label, and that art is judged not for its emotional impact, but for its ability to generate profit.

When and where have I been happiest in my work?

I was happiest when I exhibited my works in a gallery I truly admire. There, I felt part of a broader dialogue—one that unites artists with the public, creating a bridge between personal emotions and collective experience.

If I could change something about myself, what would it be?

I don’t believe there is anything “obvious” to change about myself, because, ultimately, everything about me is perfect in its imperfection. I like everything and nothing about myself: there are parts of me that I perhaps don’t fully understand, others that I wish to explore more, but in the end, I embrace myself as I am. I’ve learned to recognize that we are all here for a task—a task assigned to us in this life. I believe we are all pieces of a cosmic puzzle, and every peculiarity, every nuance, contributes to completing the larger picture. My goal isn’t to change myself, but to understand the role I am meant to play in this journey. Every step, every choice, every mistake is a piece that helps me become who I need to be. I’ve learned not to seek perfection, but to accept the uniqueness that each of us represents, knowing that, in the grand scheme, we are all part of something infinitely larger.

What is my greatest success in my work?

My greatest success is being able to convey authentic emotions through my work. Every time I see someone deeply connect with one of my pieces, I feel I have reached my goal.

Where would I like to live the most?

I would love to live in a city that breathes art and creativity, like New York, Paris, or London. These places are hubs of contemporary culture, and their energy constantly inspires me. However, I also enjoy finding myself in quieter spaces where nature can fuel my artistic reflection.

What is my most precious possession?

My most precious possession is my ability to see the world through a unique lens, allowing me to create works that tell untold stories and emotions. It’s my greatest gift, and it’s what sets me apart.

What is my most prominent characteristic?

My most prominent characteristic is my ability to navigate between two dimensions: that of reality and that of imagination. I live constantly in balance between these two worlds, and this allows me to bring to life works that blend concreteness and abstraction, creating a completely new visual language.

What is my most inspiring place in my city?

My most inspiring place is definitely a mix of the vibrancy of Milan and the tranquility of Castiglioncello. In Milan, I find inspiration in places that blend modernity and history, like the hidden art galleries in the city center, where the city’s energy stimulates my creativity. But it’s in Castiglioncello, with its whispering sea and nature embracing everything, that I feel closest to my essence. There, among the hills and the sea view, I recharge, find peace, and let inspiration flow freely, amid the colors of the sunset and the scent of the salt air.

What is my favorite place to eat and drink in my city?

There are certainly places that inspire me and make me feel at home, like a small bistro in Brera, where the atmosphere is warm and every detail is curated. However, in the end, the place where I truly feel “at home” is undoubtedly my house, where I can prepare a meal for my friends and share authentic moments with them. The real magic is in sharing daily life, habits, and preparing food with your own hands for the people you love. Home is the refuge where laughter, conversations, and dishes made with love mix, creating memories that last over time. It’s the place where every gesture becomes part of a bond that goes beyond simply eating—it’s an act of care and sharing, an experience that enriches both the cook and the diner.

What books have influenced my life and how?

The books that have deeply influenced my life are mostly those that explore the connection between art, emotion, and perception. The Story of Art by E.H. Gombrich was one of the first books to give me an understanding of artistic evolution, while The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov opened my eyes to the power of metaphors and the parallel worlds we can construct with our imagination. Lastly, The Art of Happiness by Aristotle pushed me to reflect on the concept of happiness as a continuous search, rather than a final goal.

You Only Die Once. What music would I listen to on my last day?

On my last day, I would definitely choose music that makes me feel a deep harmony with myself and with the world I have explored through my art. “Spiegel im Spiegel” by Arvo Pärt, with its calm and purity, helps me meditate on the essence of things. I would also listen to “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy for its delicacy and “The Great Gig in the Sky” by Pink Floyd, a piece that conveys a mix of emotions and reflections on life and death.

Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?

In fiction, Harry Potter is a character I admire for his personal growth, his ability to face fear and pain, and his fight against evil. I see in him a symbol of human resilience, the same resilience that pushes me every day to face the challenges of my creative work. Alicia Florrick from The Good Wife is also a figure who inspires me: a woman who, despite difficulties, manages to maintain her integrity and inner strength.

Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?

In real life, I consider Frida Kahlo a true heroine for her ability to transform her suffering into beauty. Yayoi Kusama is another great source of inspiration for me, with her unique vision of infinity and her ability to combine visual art with an intense sensory experience. I must also mention Banksy, who has made art a powerful tool for social protest and reflection.

What film would I recommend seeing at least once in life?

The film I would recommend without hesitation is Inception by Christopher Nolan, a work that challenges the perception of reality and the human mind, much like my art tries to do. The way the film mixes the real and the unreal, and its reflection on time and memory, reminds me a lot of my creative process, which explores and questions reality through new dimensions.

What role do stories play in my life and work?

Stories are the lifeblood of my art. Every piece I create tells a narrative, a fragment of my experience, or a reflection on existence. My art is a story unfolding before the eyes of the viewer, inviting them to interpret and live a part of it. Through stories, I am able to express emotions that go beyond words and speak directly to the soul.

What does the phrase “You are the narrator of your life” mean to me?

This phrase means being aware of your power to shape your existence. I feel that I have control over my narrative, that I can decide how to tell my story through my art. I am not a victim of circumstances, but a narrator who creates, manipulates, and interprets my own reality. Every choice I make on my journey is part of this narrative.

Who is my biggest fan, sponsor, and adventure companion?

My biggest fan is definitely my life partner, although in a different dimension from mine. They support me in moments of doubt and celebrate every small achievement. My children, who believe in me and my work, are a constant source of inspiration and support. Additionally, the galleries and curators who have given me the opportunity to exhibit are true partners in my artistic journey, helping me bring my message to the public.

Who would I like to work with?

I would love to collaborate with prestigious galleries like Tate Modern, MoMA, and the Centre Pompidou, which represent the cutting edge of contemporary art. I am also intrigued by the possibility of collaborating with brands that combine aesthetics and innovation, such as Apple or Tesla, for projects that merge art and technology. I am also very interested in working with Christie’s or Sotheby’s to bring my work to international stages.

Which project am I most excited to work on?

I am very excited about a project that is taking shape: a series of interactive art installations that engage the audience in sensory experiences, where lights, colors, sounds, and scents mix to create an immersive environment. This project will allow me to explore new technologies and new modes of artistic expression, and it has the potential to transform the experience of those who experience it.

Where can I be seen or where can I see my work?

If you want to learn more about me, you can visit my official website paolahuller.com, where you will find a selection of my works, information about ongoing projects, and past exhibitions. You can also follow my Instagram page @paolahuller to stay updated on new works, events, and artistic activities. You will find a mix of content reflecting my creative process and my daily inspirations.

What does the phrase “Passion never retires” mean to me?

To me, this phrase is an invitation to never stop, to continue seeking and exploring even when important milestones are reached. Passion is what drives us, regardless of age, challenges, or the passage of time. It is what pushes me to work and improve every day, without ever stopping.

Which creative professionals should I suggest Peter interview to tell their story?

I would suggest interviewing artists like David Hockney, who has explored digital art, and Olafur Eliasson, who works with perception and the environment. Marina Abramović, who changed the face of performance art, would also be an excellent choice, as well as Jeff Koons for his ability to make art popular and provocative.

How can you contact me?

You can contact me through my website paolahuller.com, through social media like Instagram @paolahuller, or by email at hullerpame.com. I am always open to new connections and collaborations, both with other artists and with people interested in my art. Every exchange is an opportunity for growth for me.

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