Linda Facci has a job that is truly one-of-a-kind. With just a few tools and a lot of felt, she creates hyper realistic sculptures that are so lifelike, it’s hard to believe they are not the real thing. I had the pleasure of meeting up with Facci to talk about her unique art form and her journey as an artist.
Facci’s studio is a cozy and colorful space, filled with shelves of felt in every shade imaginable. As I entered, I was greeted by the sight of her latest creation – a tiny felt cat that looked like it could purr at any moment. Facci’s attention to detail is truly remarkable, and it’s no surprise that her sculptures have gained a loyal following.
Growing up, Facci always had a love for art and crafting. She experimented with various mediums, but it wasn’t until she discovered felt that she found her true passion. “I was drawn to the texture and versatility of felt. It’s such a simple material, but it can be transformed into something so realistic,” she explains.
Facci’s process begins with a simple sketch of her subject. She then carefully selects the colors and types of felt that will best capture the essence of the subject. Using a combination of needle felting and wet felting techniques, she sculpts the felt into intricate details, such as fur, feathers, and even wrinkles. The end result is a miniature masterpiece that is both adorable and astonishingly realistic.
One of Facci’s most popular creations is her felt food series. From sushi to pizza, her tiny food sculptures look good enough to eat. “I love creating food sculptures because it’s a fun way to play with colors and textures. Plus, who doesn’t love food?” she laughs.
But Facci’s talent doesn’t stop at just creating sculptures. She also teaches workshops and classes, sharing her skills and inspiring others to explore their creativity. “I love seeing the joy on my students’ faces when they create something they never thought they could. It’s a wonderful feeling to be able to pass on my knowledge and passion for felt art,” she says.
Facci’s work has gained recognition not only in her home country of Russia, but also internationally. Her sculptures have been featured in galleries and exhibitions around the world, and she has even collaborated with major brands for their advertising campaigns.
When asked about her inspiration, Facci says, “I find inspiration in everyday life. Whether it’s a beautiful flower or a cute animal, I try to capture the essence of the subject and bring it to life in my sculptures.”
As I watched Facci work on her latest creation, a tiny felt butterfly, I couldn’t help but be amazed by her talent and dedication. It takes hours of meticulous work to create just one sculpture, but Facci’s passion for her craft shines through in every piece.
As our interview came to an end, Facci shared her hopes for the future. “I want to continue creating and sharing my art with the world. I also hope to inspire others to explore their creativity and find joy in the simple things,” she says with a smile.
As I left Facci’s studio, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by her story and her incredible talent. Her unique and charming job is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. With just a few tools and a lot of felt, Facci has created a world of miniature wonders that will continue to captivate and amaze for years to come.
