Behind the scenes of “French Holidays” with Audrey Dubussy

As part of our ongoing collaborations with female artists and creatives over the past few seasons, we invited graphic designer and illustrator Audrey Dubussy to create an exclusive print for Gili’s.

Designed for fathers and children, “French Holidays” is an invitation to sunshine, holidays, and a certain vision of the French summer. Through her sensitive eye and vibrant visual language, Audrey created a print that feels lively, evocative, and timeless.

We spoke with her about her creative journey, her process, and the inspirations behind this collaboration.

Can you tell us about your creative universe and your journey?

I studied graphic design at ECAL in Lausanne, a demanding school that taught me to be both rigorous and curious. Today, I work independently on branding, illustration, and art direction projects.

I’ve never wanted to confine myself to a single universe. What drives me is precisely the ability to shift visual languages depending on the project. I don’t define myself through one unique creative identity — I adapt to each project.

I’ve been fortunate to explore different forms of creation since childhood, almost like an endless playground, and even today I approach every collaboration as a new story to tell.

My role is to translate creativity into images with accuracy and sensitivity, while aligning with the identity and needs of each client.

What was the original brief for creating this print for Gili’s, and how did you interpret it?

The world of the design needed to evoke summer, holidays, sunshine, the seaside, and France, while preserving what defines the essence of the brand: a bright and radiant pattern.

The first step was to explore different visual elements around this theme, then identify those that worked best. I started by collecting images and ideas connected to this universe — a bit like packing a suitcase before leaving on a trip. Then I edited, simplified, and kept only the essentials.

The main challenge was finding the right rhythm within the composition: something lively and balanced that catches the eye without feeling overwhelming. The idea was to create a pattern that could accompany everyone naturally.

How did your creative process unfold for this project?

I always begin by observing and understanding: the brand, its story, and the people it speaks to. Then comes a more intuitive phase of exploration, made up of visual research and experimentation. I like to let ideas mature.

Once the direction is validated, I move into production. Gradually, one direction becomes clear and feels obvious. From that point onward, everything becomes more fluid and I move into execution.

Your universe feels very sunny and luminous — is the French Riviera a major source of inspiration for you?

Yes, undoubtedly. I draw inspiration from many things: art, architecture, typography — but light plays an enormous role. There’s something about the South, those vibrant colors and that softness mixed with a certain intensity. It leaves a lasting impression, and naturally, that finds its way into my work.

To date, what is the project you are most proud of?

That’s a question I find genuinely difficult to answer. Every project is so different that they can’t really be compared.

What makes me proud changes depending on the context: sometimes it’s finding a simple solution to something complex; sometimes it’s creating a graphic direction that managed to surprise; or simply being part of a smooth and sincere collaboration.

What matters most to me is having stayed true and given my best.

If you had to share your ideal destination for your next vacation, where would it be?

Probably South America. It’s a continent full of authenticity, where landscapes feel almost unreal, cultural richness is immense, and urban energy is incredibly strong.

I’m especially fascinated by São Paulo — its raw architecture, its contrasts, and that bold blend of chaos and creativity inspire me a lot. It’s an audacious mix of modernity and a strong artistic identity.

What are your favorite places in the South of France?

• La Table du Mareyeur in Port Grimaud
• La Trattoria in Grimaud
• La Colombe d’Or in Saint-Paul-de-Vence
• Villa Noailles in Hyères
• Fondation Carmignac in Porquerolles

Finally, what are you working on at the moment? What’s coming up next?

Right now, I’m working on a project that’s particularly meaningful to me: the visual identity for a new fragrance launching in New York at the end of the year. I designed both the bottle and the entire visual universe around it. These are the kinds of projects I especially enjoy — the ones that unfold over time and allow space to explore, refine, and fully develop an idea. Work that is built layer by layer, with real depth.

At the same time, I’m also working on several visual identity projects internationally, each with different creative worlds to explore — and that’s exactly what I love.