Every adventure could use a little company. For Italian illustrator Margherita Caspani, that company takes the form of a slightly grumpy guardian, hand-painted onto our Hajo Mini Backpack. Watchful, colorful, and perhaps a little unimpressed, it is a travel companion with a personality of its own.
Based in Milan, Margherita creates a world of curious creatures and unexpected characters. Bold shapes and saturated colors give her work an immediate presence, while a gentle sense of irony invites a closer look. For our collaboration, she brought that world to the Hajo, using enamel markers to turn its familiar silhouette into the home of an unlikely guardian angel.
At Ucon Acrobatics, inviting an artist to work on one of our bags is a chance to see a familiar design through someone else’s eyes. Margherita’s interpretation gives the Hajo a character to carry with you, one that brings a little humor to the everyday journey.
We spoke with Margherita about her lifelong love of drawing, finding inspiration in the people around her, and the story behind her painted backpack.
At what age did you find art was something you had a passion for? And where did the art inspiration come from?
I started drawing as soon as I could hold a pencil in my hand and I’ve never stopped since. As a child, my absolute favorite subjects were animals, both real and imaginary. All things considered, I haven’t changed that much.
How would you describe your artistic style? Are there any specific techniques or mediums that you frequently incorporate into your artwork?
I like to describe my style as dreamily ironic. The beauty of drawing lies in breaking the expectations of reality - and doing so while having fun. I love bold shapes and saturated colors. Any tool that allows me to achieve that immediately captures my attention.
What materials and techniques did you use to bring your vision to life on the backpack? Any favorite paints or brushes for this project?
I created a slightly grumpy “guardian angel” who follows us on our adventures, just like a backpack does. For this collaboration, I relied on the brilliance of enamel markers. They perfectly match my love for vivid colors and solid shapes, and they ensure the artwork lasts over time.
What role does art play in your life? How does it influence or reflect your personal experiences and perspectives?
Without art, I wouldn’t be able to breathe. I try to surround myself with creative people and inspiring situations as much as possible. They tickle my desire to create and push me to keep up with all the beauty that surrounds me.
Where can the Ucon Acrobatics community find out more about you?
You can find me on Instagram at @ArteMarghe. Alternatively, you can discover more about my work on my website: www.margheritacaspani.com
What is your favorite Ucon Acrobatics item?
They’re all beautiful! But I’ve fallen in love with my Shota Medium Bag in Pine Green. It’s soft, incredibly practical, and I always receive lots of compliments when I carry it.
