Bio

Tommaso Ciaffoncini was born in Urbino, Italy in 1955. The town, steeped in rich history and inspiring architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for a young man with a passion for art. As the hometown of the famous Renaissance painter Raphael, and the epicenter for arts in Italy, Tommaso was surrounded by the inspiration and support he needed to pursue his dreams.

Much of that inspiration and support came from his family. His mother was a seamstress, running a small business that designed and made women’s apparel. His grandfather, a furniture maker, created intricate pieces that were reminiscent of classical Italian design. His uncle, a well-known artist in Italy, continually shared the value of creativity and craftsmanship with Tommaso. And most importantly, his father Osvaldo, who demonstrated the value of hard work and resilience. A factory worker for most of his life, his father would later follow his own dream of becoming a painter himself.

Oliano Ciaffoncini - Lithograph 1980

Tommaso recognized his passion for art early on, and attended the Istituto d’Arte d’Urbino where he received a degree in Fine Arts. There, he discovered an interest and developed his skills and techniques in painting, illustration, and printmaking. Soon after, Tommaso was accepted to the prestigious Art Institute, Corso Superiore d’Arte Grafica (today known as ISIA Urbino), where he graduated with a degree in Graphic Communications. It was during this time that he was fortunate to study under several great mentors, including the famous graphic designer, Michele Provinciali, who introduced Tommaso to new creative philosophies from the Bauhaus school of thought and the Dada artistic movement. It was also during this time that Tommaso met his future wife, Diana, who has been an important part of Tommaso’s creative experiences and passions for over 40 years.

Tommaso Ciaffoncini - Pencil Drawing 1973

Shortly after completing his education, Tommaso and Diana moved to Rome, where Tommaso designed books for Armando Curcio Editore – a large publication company that focused on creating series of works that showcased exploration and history from around the world. While this job was a very important part of his personal development, Tommaso knew he wanted more from life and wanted to explore the world. In 1981, Tommaso and Diana moved from Rome to the United States, where Tommaso established and pursued his career as a graphic designer and creative director.

After working for a number of successful creative agencies, Tommaso was inspired to start his own award-winning agency in 1985, Origo Branding Company (originally Tommaso Inc.), developing design and advertising strategies for organizations around the world. Through the years, Tommaso has served a broad range of clients, from Fortune 500 companies to nonprofit organizations. Never forgetting those who have helped and inspired him along the way, Tommaso has given generously of his time and talents to the many organizations and causes that are close to his heart.

However, while building a successful business, Tommaso never lost his passion for the arts and for pushing himself to express his creativity in new ways. Tommaso has continued to devote his time and creative energy to his art studio, where he develops authentic, creative works that tell a deeper story of himself through painting, sculpture, and pure expression.

Rome, Italy 1977
Oliano Ciaffoncini - Lithograph 1980
Tommaso Ciaffoncini - Pencil Drawing 1973
Rome, Italy 1977

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