Alice Pugini, who creates under the name Block & Branch, is a graphic designer and illustrator by day, and a lino print artist by night (and weekend). Through her carvings, Alice explores different subjects and techniques, but is currently focusing on creating works inspired by Roman and Greek art.
She studied art at school in Rome where she covered a broad range of subjects; from technical drawing and sculpture, to art history and graphic design. She then went on an exchange year to a small town in Michigan, USA, and upon her return she finished her studies in Italy and moved to London for University. Since graduating in Graphic Communication Design, Alice has been working in Amsterdam as a designer and illustrator, both in-house and, more recently, as a freelancer.
Having grown up in Rome, Alice was surrounded by Ancient art and culture, which now forms the basis of the inspiration for her lino prints. When she took a DNA test a few years ago, she found out that she also had Greek origins. She tells us; “I thought that was the coolest thing! And it somewhat encouraged me to use Greek art as inspiration, too (which I’ve also always been obsessed with anyway)!” Alice’s printmaking name, Block & Branch, comes from a mix of lino block printing and the olive branch; a plant typical of both Italy and Greece and representing of peace, which is what the practice of linocut brings her.
Looking to the future, she hopes to be able to incorporate more lino printing into her design work, and to keep developing and growing her online shop.
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