Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1960, Itman has studied in Minneapolis, Paris and New York, and lives in Italy and France. He brings a global perspective to his creative expression, from unique drawings and ceramics to film and video. (video)

Philosophy and Working style/Drawings and Ceramics

My art is populated with characters, human, animal, and imaginary beings that share a universal sense of "humanity" in its best representation. I prefer my characters and the landscapes they populate to feel open and inviting, yet vulnerable, in a way that conveys a freedom from constraints. The vibrant colors, fluid lines and often fantastic shapes are meant to evoke a feeling of liveliness that's organic, and celebratory, yet naïve.

My drawings are borne out of both emotion and intellect; they are imagined, then created as spontaneously as they appear. Humor and Irony nourish my life and my work. I draw in multiple panels or create ceramic pieces that are meant to relate with each other, although no two are the same. The majority of my drawings, when framed and presented, are grouped as multiple panels that can be as few as two, and as many as sixteen. Only rarely do I determine a drawing that stands on its own.

Technique and Tools

I work on Arches paper, which is a French acid-free paper, and use Caren d’Ache colored pencils. In my ceramic works I use a variety of clays and colors. Some of the under-glazes are manufactured in the states. These give me the strong and vivid colors I love.

Film and Video Work

I’ve conceived and performed in numerous corporate, training, public service, and music videos in the United States, Italy, and France.  I produced, directed and co-wrote the full-length feature film "Acid Snow," based on the Larry Mitchell’s book of the same name.

Formal Education

New York University, New York, 1985-1987: Film and television production

University of Paris III (Sorbonne), 1983-1985: Film theory and criticism

University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, 1979-1982: French