The Nine Muses edition three with artwork by Madame Dabi has arrived.
When I began searching for artists for board number three and stumbled upon Madame Dabi's work, I immediately knew it would look amazing on a skateboard—and be a departure from the dark surrealism of the two previous projects—a reflection of my admiration of the feminine, boudoir and noir and a celebration of female revolution.
Entitled "Bows & Rosé", only 75 have been produced. The deck includes a hand-numbered postcard with original artwork and bio signed by Amalia Russiello and is available in two sizes. The Nine Muses is honored to collaborate with Madame Dabi on our third skateboard, showcasing a piece entitled “Bows & Rosé”.
I chose a small assortment of my favorite works from Dabi to highlight here as she shares a little about her work and feelings on the “Bows & Rosé” piece we used for the collaboration.
Born, raised and based in her home of Naples, Italy, Amalia Russiello is the creative force behind Madame Dabi.
“I’ve always drawn,” says Russiello. “My mother tells me I spent hours and hours drawing when I was very little.”
After graduating university with a degree in art history, Russiello dedicated herself completely to illustration and Madame Dabi Boudoir was born.
1920’s, 1930’s and 1700’s Rococo era culture and fashion serve as inspiration for Madame Dabi’s work. When combined, these aesthetics create a delicate, feminine style known as boudoir art.
“The ‘20s are a notoriously revolutionary era for women,” says Madame Dabi. “The Flappers’ short hair and shortened skirts was a radical change. Expressing sexuality in a feminine and ironic way was typical of the period—a claim of freedom.
“My illustrations are purposefully cute but sensual,” says Madame Dabi. “Everyone expresses sexuality in their own unique way—there is no right or wrong and I do it using pastels!”
Madame Dabi illustrates traditionally—by hand. If necessary, finishing touches are added digitally. Her first major collaboration was with French luxury pastry maker, Maison Ladurée and her artwork has appeared in Cosmopolitan, Vogue, Playboy and Dazed.
“I aspire to create an illustrated book soon,” says Madame Dabi. “I have so many desires regarding my work. I hope they never fade because they push myself and my art further.”
