Simone Rotella, In Pursuit of the Perfect Image
Simone Rotella is an Italian illustrator known for a distinctive style that blends conceptual thinking with dreamlike, retro-inspired visuals. Working across freehand and digital techniques, he creates illustrations with a strong, recognisable identity and a focus on visual storytelling. His work is shaped by a passion for social and cultural themes such as the Italian resistance, as well as experience in NGO campaigns. A self-taught artist with a background in advertising and studies at The Polytechnic University of Turin, he has been shortlisted by the Society of Illustrators and exhibited internationally, including at Singapore Design Week and in New York. Inspired by everyday life, travel, and the arts, he balances his practice with personal pursuits and aims to be remembered as a poet of images.
Let’s find out more about Simone, where he finds his inspiration, how his process works, and more:
What would you say is your best piece of work or collaboration to date, and why?
A recent poster made for the Singapore design week 2025 titled Equilibrium. I really enjoyed designing it, calibrating the colours and mixing botanical elements with the character figure, creating movement and transmitting the concept of harmony between flavours and smells.
Where do you like to go to be inspired, or how do you find your inspiration?
I take out my dog to the park three times a day, so for me this is the perfect moment to observe, analyse and put ideas together. I also like going to the library near my studio, looking for references or enjoying the complete silence while drawing.
Is there anything you'd say you would be a good advocate for? Please elaborate if so.
On a social level, I'm interested in spreading the concepts of equality, freedom and self-determination for all human beings, regardless of religion, ethnicity, culture or sexual orientation. I'm a strong supporter of environmental causes, especially reforestation and wildlife protection.
What would you say sets you apart from other illustrators? Something you feel is unique to you.
It's a difficult question because I believe that everyone has their own unique added value, especially in the artistic world; in my case I would say that perhaps it is the utopian search for the "perfect image" that does not exist in a subjective context (and I’m well aware of that), but which pushes me to constantly research and refine my style by experimenting with new techniques and adding new stimuli to the creativity of my work.
If you have done paid commissions prior to joining the agency, what would you say clients repeatedly come to you for?
Unpaid editing. Last minute modifications that completely change the structure and visual concept of the work.
How would you describe your style?
Metaphorical, conceptual, at times with retro-vibes, enriched with details.
Please give a scenario of a project that would mean the world to you, if you were offered it — something that connects to something meaningful to you.
I would love to work with ESA or NASA or anything relate to space. I like the sense of solitude that deep space creates, and I think I know how to convey it well. It makes you small in front of its immensity but amazes you with its incredible colours and the discoveries that man slowly learns in his evolutionary path. I am also attracted by the technological process of space instruments, rockets and satellites that are continuously improved. I like their shapes and I like the emotional charge that these space exploration events convey. I do like sports and history too, especially linked to the period of the Enlightenment and second great Industrial Revolution — maybe something related to that for cinema or a TV series.
Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?
I'm currently working on some wine labels that are still in their incubation process, as well as a graphic novel of mine that translates a beautiful book written by Jack London that I recently read. It's all evolving, but it would be interesting to have your professional feedback.
Finally, if you were to illustrate a book related to a real life person, who would that be?
Probably Joseph Rock, an incredible adventurous botanist who lived between the nineteenth and twentieth century. Also Leone Jacovacci, an Italian-Congolese boxing champion who fought racial laws during the Italian fascism.
If you’d like more info, please contact [email protected]
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