Federica Tumminello is the face behind Cose Illustrate. An illustrator and printmaker based in Turin, and specialising in linocut and graphic arts, Cose Illustrate is a project through which she creates original prints, postcards, and limited editions, with a strong focus on high-quality materials and the craftsmanship of the printing process.
Federica’s artistic journey began at the Academy of Fine Arts in Palermo, where she studied painting, developing a keen sensitivity to line, colour, and composition. Later, she specialised in printmaking, exploring traditional printing techniques such as linocut, woodcut, and etching. This path led her to experiment with the fusion of painterly and graphic marks, refining a style that is both essential and striking.
Her work stems from the idea of telling small stories through carved lines, often playing with words to create images that contain micro-narratives that draw inspiration from everyday life scenes (mostly starring dogs or cats). Federica tells us; “I love to reinterpret everyday expressions, transforming them into illustrated scenes that take on a new meaning and offer a different perspective on reality.” Her practice focuses on the tactile and incisive quality of linocut, employing an illustration style that is characterised by bold contrasts, graphic style, and handcrafted textures.
Pop culture is one of the biggest influences on Federica’s creative output, particularly cinema, classic films, and the horror genre. She comments; “I enjoy reimagining iconic characters with a sharp and minimal style, giving them a new identity through the language of linocut printing. I find the contrast between the bold graphic line and the evocative power of these images fascinating, and I believe linocut enhances their strength.” Ultimately, Federica’s goal is to create images that are not just decorative, but also communicate something meaningful, encouraging the viewer to see the world from a different perspective.
With the Cose Illustrate project, Federica creates original prints, postcards, and limited editions, paying great attention to the quality of materials and the handmade nature of the printing process. Sustainability is a key aspect of this work; she uses water-based inks and eco-friendly materials, respecting the traditions of artisanal printmaking. Each print is born from the desire to keep alive the tactile and unique dimension of traditional printmaking.
Federica describes; “I see linocut as a direct and essential means of expression that enhances the gesture and uniqueness of each impression, embracing the beauty of imperfection and the handmade process. For me, printmaking becomes a way to slow down and appreciate the creative process, standing in contrast to massive production.”
In addition to fine art printing, Federica works as a graphic and visual designer at a company in Turin, where she focuses on visual identity and communication. “This background has taught me how to balance creativity and structured design thinking, blending the spontaneity of design with the precision of carved lines,” says the printmaker.
@coseillustrate
www.coseillustrate.com
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