“My art is a celebration of life…I love experimentation, details, the beauty of colours…the simplicity of the composition within the complexity of the mediums…Playfulness is essential in my practice :) inspired by nature, I combine the known with the unknown, in search for an instant of pure joy… ”
– Gaia Starace
Bio
Starace is a multi-disciplinary artist whose work seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary techniques, resulting in experimental and thought-provoking compositions. Born in Rome, Italy, and classically trained in architecture at the University of Rome, her artistic practice is profoundly influenced by her Italian heritage and architectural background. Now based in Sydney, Australia, she embraces Zen philosophy to achieve harmony and elegance in her compositions while also drawing inspiration from the striking Australian landscape. Constantly exploring new approaches, she pushes beyond the boundaries of the expected.
Engaging with themes of spirituality, nature, and cultural memory, Starace creates works that invite viewers into a dialogue with the intangible. Her art moves at the intersection of abstraction and form, utilizing oil, acrylic, mixed media, pastel, and a variety of other materials to build layered, expressive compositions. Defined by rich textures, bold colors, and fluid gestures, her work captures the energy and depth of human expression.
A recurring and distinctive "line" emerges throughout her paintings, serving as both a signature motif and a reflection of her artistic vision. Transitioning from structured forms to freer, gestural movements, this element represents a profound sense of connection—linking her past to the present, her homeland to the wider world, and her personal journey to universal themes of love, spirituality, and identity.
Balancing control and spontaneity, Starace’s work embodies transformation and the unseen forces that shape human experience. Her painting process is highly intuitive, driven by a desire to challenge conventions and discover her own unique form of expression. Through her art, she offers an immersive aesthetic journey, encouraging viewers to engage beyond the physical surface and connect with deeper emotional and spiritual layers.
With exhibitions across Australia and internationally, including solo showcases, her dedication to craftsmanship is evident in every piece. Each artwork is signed discreetly on the back and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, underscoring her commitment to professionalism and artistic integrity.
Beyond her studio practice, Starace is also an accomplished architect and interior designer. She shares her expertise as an educator, teaching Interior Design at TAFE NSW, Enmore, Sydney, where she inspires the next generation of creatives.
Solo Exhibition
2023 Forever Clouds, The Incinerator Art Space, Willoughby
Group Exhibition
2025 upcoming solo exhibition, The Concourse, Chatswood/Willoughby Council, AU
2024 Form & Flesh, Herk Alexander Gallery, Stanmore, AU
2022 Stretch, The Concourse, Chatswood/Willoughby Council, AU
2021 Opening Curated by Sergio Gomez. Sponsored by Art NXT Level and ArtPlacer, an online exhibition.
2020 Summer Rain, The Brick Lane Gallery, London, UK
2020 Enigma, The Brick Lane Gallery, London, UK
2019 The square and the circle: a space of playfulness contemplation/A&D Annual, UNSW Art & Design, Cofa at Kudos Gallery, Paddington
2019 The square and the circle: a space of playfulness contemplation, 2019/Capstone Project, Comber Street Studio, Paddington, Australia
2019 Moon Rings, 2019/NOX Night Sculpture, Randwick, Australia
2018 This is What I have to Show For It, Gaffa Gallery, Sydney, Australia