You might not know this, but besides getting an art, Italian artist Riccardo Federici was a student at the Architecture faculty in “The Sapienza” University of Roma. At the same time while he was there, he also studied about physiology. The blend of these knowledge bases are evident in Riccardo's drawings of characters, featuring extremely detailed and realistic anatomy.
Since 2005, Riccardo has worked on comics with major publishers including DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Dynamite Entertainment, Dark Horse, Blizzard Entertainment and others. One of the acclaimed comic book series Riccardo is known for is "Saria", a gothic fantasy tale in collaboration with writer Jean Dufaux and artist Paolo Eleuteri Serpieri.
Riccardo also creates original artworks for private collectors and conducts workshops on concept design, painting and illustration in Europe. He is the first comic book artist to have his works exhibited at the Roma Biennale, alongside leading contemporary painters and photographers.
This will be the first time Riccardo Federici is featured as a guest at Singapore Comic Con, so Red Dot Diva was eager to have a little chat with him before he arrives for the event.
Red Dot Diva: While learning more about you on the internet, I found out that you started out in Architecture, and then grew an interest in painting, oils, sculpting, was this a normal progression of your art to illustrations and comics?
Riccardo: I've always had a passion for figurative art in general. Since I was a child, I've always drawn, painted, and designed everything. The important thing for me has always been to do something that felt natural. Therefore, I can say that there has been no transition or change. Architecture may have enriched me in terms of functionality and rationality, but it isn't something that, at least in my case, goes in a different direction than other figurative arts.
Red Dot Diva: You are also the first comic book artist to be showcased at the Roma Biennele. Tell us about what you displayed and what did you work on /collaborate for the event?
Riccardo: I participated in the Rome Biennale with an illustration I created as the cover of a French comic I worked on several years ago: Saria. To participate in the exhibition, I had to pass two selection phases, and when I was chosen among the participants, it was a tremendous honor for me. Comics and illustration, unfortunately, are often considered something that doesn't fall within the realm of art, and it was truly exciting to receive such a prestigious recognition.
Red Dot Diva: Which comic book project did you enjoy drawing the most, and why?
Riccardo: This is a difficult question, as I don't usually get attached to the work I do. However, thinking about it, I can say with certainty that "The Last God" series by Phillip Kennedy Johnson is perhaps the work that has excited me the most. It's a fantasy story reminiscent of a Dungeons & Dragons adventure, set in a rather ruthless, corrupt, and intricate fictional world. For this series, I created 12 issues, a cover, and designed every element depicted: from the characters to the settings, the objects, and so on. I love inventing and designing. Furthermore, Phillip is a fantastic person and writer, intelligent and very collaborative, allowing artists to interpret and express themselves freely.
Red Dot Diva: In your opinion, what is the best thing about being a well known comic book artist?
Riccardo: Many things, and among these, you have the opportunity to create important projects in different sectors such as film, TV series, video games.
Red Dot Diva: What will you be looking forward to most when you are here as a guest of Singapore Comic Con? On a food trail or local coffee hunt, perhaps?
Riccardo: Actually, I don't know: I'm very curious to get to know Singapore and the people who live there. I'd love to explore Singapore's less touristy aspects, those considered more traditional. I'm certainly very curious about the food, and it would be fantastic to draw and paint with local artists over a relaxing dinner.
Red Dot Diva: Please also share with the fans what they can purchase at your booth.
Riccardo: At my stand it will be possible to obtain signatures, commissioned works, purchase prints of some illustrations and also my original works of art relating to comics and illustration. I hope that my fans will be happy to stop by my stand, I will certainly be happy to meet them and thank them for their support of my art.
Can't help admiring Riccardo's sick skills as evident in this video:
Riccardo Federici is hosted by Fat Snake Comic's booth (L1-AA01- 12) at SGCC 2025! Do give him a warm Red Dot Island welcome by drop by the booth. You can buy his prints and art, and get your comics signed!
SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2025
Where: Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre
Date: 6 & 7 December 2025 (Sat and Sun) with special Preview Night on 5 December 2025 (Fri)
Time: 10 AM to 8 PM on 6 & 7 December 2025
Admission: Refer to details at SISTIC - https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/sgcomic1224
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