Julia Mercanti for Studio

Meet Canadian creative and artist extraordinaire, Julia Mercanti, known for her cheeky illustrations and observational art. Follow Julia through an artistic exercise where she freely explores her creativity, in mind and body, while wearing different Daysuits. 

Photography by Mor Anucov

Studio: Tell us how Toronto’s favourite artist got her start.

JM: I graduated from OCADU with a major in criticism and curatorial practices (which I never use) and a minor in painting in drawing (that - I use). My work is mostly observational / autobiographical and uses a very strict colour palette. I am a freelancer based out of downtown Toronto in my second bedroom studio space but I have dreams of doing a few artist residencies across the globe in the near future.

Studio: What did it feel like to wear Daysuits while painting?

JM: Wearing the Daysuits while painting gave me an overwhelming prompt to play. I felt completely unrestricted. It added so much physicality to the work. My body wanted to bend into the very shapes I was creating on canvas. I was free to explore whatever movement came into my head.

Studio: How did the Daysuits impact your creative process?

JM: Being able to paint directly onto the Daysuit was cathartic. So often I forget I am the vessel of creativity. It sounds quite boastful, but I hold the artistic power, not the work. To paint on the Daysuit and myself was a powerful reminder that I am the one in control, I should be decorated and adorned too (lol). Wearing the Daysuit is also an expression of my own shape and body. There is nothing to conceal and everything to celebrate.