BIO

Contemporary Women Artist

I was born in Rome, Italy, on May 15, 1974, to Amanda Urquidi, a Bolivian, and Franco Reale, a Sicilian painter and founder of the European Academy of Fashion and Costume in Rome.

My father immersed me in the realms of fashion and art during the vibrant fashion scene of 1980s and 1990s Italy. From an early age, I found my passion as a stylist, participating in prestigious showcases such as “Alta Roma Alta Moda” and actively contributing to my father’s academy.

I pursued a two-year course in Art History at La Sapienza University in Rome, while also sharing my knowledge by teaching figure drawing, stylization, and the history of cinema and theatrical costume.

My father’s artistic influence acquainted me with the realms of realism and French impressionism, while the dynamic and artistic environment of Rome continues to inspire me daily, shaping my artistic journey and honing my skills.

In 1996, I embarked on a career with Alitalia as a flight attendant, which afforded me the opportunity to travel extensively worldwide, exposing me to diverse mental and cultural horizons.

In 2004, I settled in the lush tropical jungle of Costa Rica, along the Pacific coast.

As a self-taught artist, I dedicated years to studying art classics, pre-Columbian primitive art, and exploring various artistic techniques.

In 2018, I achieved a certificate in modern art from New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).

In 2019, I founded the Happy Lab Santa Teresa Art Atelier, a platform for sharing, discussing, and collaborating with fellow artists, as well as an inspiration to guide young talents in their pursuit of turning dreams into reality, all while nurturing and unleashing their artistic potential.

I received a Certificate in Roman Architecture from Yale University.

My artwork gained international exposure with my debut painting exhibition in the virtual gallery of Heclecthik-Art Portugal in 2020. Following that, I showcased my creations in the esteemed COSMOSIS exhibition at The Holy Art Gallery in London in 2021. I was featured in the June 2021 edition of The Marvelous Art Magazine and held an annual exhibition at the Hecletik-Art Portugal Gallery. Additionally, I was selected by the Centre of Contemporary Artists (C.O.C.A) for the prestigious Art Project in 2021. In 2022, I obtained a certificate in Archaeology and “Landscapes of Ancient Rome” from La Sapienza University in Rome, Italy. Notably, I received a Certificate of Merit from the Luxembourg Museum for my exceptional participation in the Luxembourg Art Prize in both 2021 and 2022.

As a contemporary artist, I am renowned for my unique blend of classical elements, such as Hercules, the Pompeian “domus,” and ancient Roman architectural structures, juxtaposed against vibrant backgrounds and pre-Columbian elements. My works transport viewers through mystical visions, symbolism, animals, astronauts, and extraterrestrials, all interwoven in a captivating and ever-evolving artistic language.