Meet dellamarie parrilli

We recently connected with Dellamarie Parrilli and have shared our conversation below.

Dellamarie, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

Creativity, for me, is a relentless pursuit of the unknown and the uncharted. As an abstract artist, I believe the essence of creativity lies in a perpetual state of curiosity and openness. It is a dance with the subconscious, where the conventional rules are not just bent but obliterated, so that complete creative freedom is achieved.

Creative freedom and identity are two deeply intertwined aspects of my artistic journey that have profoundly shaped my work and career. Creative freedom is the lifeblood of my art, allowing me to explore, experiment, and express without constraints. It is the freedom to delve into the abstract, to challenge conventional norms, and to create from a place of authenticity and boundless imagination. This freedom is not just a luxury but a necessity, as it enables me to fully embrace my identity and reflect it in my work. My identity, shaped by my experiences, heritage, and personal beliefs, is the core of my artistic expression. It provides a unique lens through which I interpret the world and convey my innermost thoughts and emotions. By merging creative freedom with a strong sense of identity, I create art that is not only innovative but also deeply personal and resonant, offering a genuine reflection of who I am and the world as I see it. This fusion of freedom and identity is what gives my work its distinct voice and enduring impact.

The elements that fuel my creativity are varied and deeply personal. Firstly, I draw inspiration from the raw emotions and experiences of life—the joy, the sorrow, the chaos, the challenges, the sweet and the calm. These are the colors on my palette, the strokes that define my canvas. Music has always had a profound influence in my life and my art, as necessary as the air I breathe. Drawing inspiration from the harmonies, rhythms, and lyrics, ultimately transposing these elements into my artistic mediums yielding a multi-sensory encounter. Nature, too, plays a crucial role. The fluidity of water, the unpredictable patterns of the wind, clouds and the vibrant hues of a sunset—all contribute to my creative reservoir.

Motivation, on the other hand, stems from my insatiable desire to communicate and connect on a profound level. Art, for me, is a language beyond words, a medium to express what cannot be spoken. My motivation is not just to create something visually appealing but to evoke thought, stir emotions, and challenge perceptions which I believe lead to meaningful dialogue. Each piece I create is a fragment of my soul, an invitation to the viewer to explore their own depths.

Moreover, I find that experimentation is vital. It’s about breaking the barriers of any perceived comfort zone and embracing the unknown. This constant evolution is what keeps my creativity alive.

In essence, keeping creativity alive is about maintaining a childlike wonder and an unwavering passion for exploration. It is about embracing the unpredictability of the creative process and allowing oneself to be vulnerable and authentic. This, I believe, is the true essence of artistic expression.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m a multidisciplinary artist living and working in Los Angeles. My body of work has been described as ‘wide ranging, ever changing and restlessly experimental’. It’s true. I do not fit easily into known categories. I have a distinguished career that spans over five decades encompassing a broad spectrum in the visual and creative arts – painting, sculpting, photography, screenwriting, music, theater and jewelry design – and now, an inventor with a patent pending. The creative life is truly all about creative freedom and exploring!

I am focused on several very exciting new projects while I continue to break barriers with my 3D painting – using industrial materials and avant-garde techniques creating three-dimensional pieces that transports viewers into a world of translucence and depth never seen or achieved in this medium.

But recently, I expanded my creative horizons with a project near and dear to my heart, and so it is with great honor and profound anticipation that I introduce you to “Among The Stars”, published by BookBaby. This compelling book, a 5-year labor of love for me, is a visual journey that delves into the intimate lives of the Hollywood homeless with unparalleled empathy and insight as it boldly reveals the juxtaposition of Hollywood’s glitz and the stark reality of homelessness. Each photograph, a stunning visual narrative that speaks volumes without uttering a single word, brings to light and captures not merely the people and faces, but the essence of human resilience and the enduring flickers of hope. “Among The Stars” is not merely a book to be read; it is an experience to be felt, a call to action that cannot be ignored.

In the forward to “Among The Stars,” I reflected on my experience:
“What the eye doesn’t see, the heart cannot feel. As a visual artist, I trust that through my ‘eyes’ others may see. I believe we all deserve to be seen and heard, even when the cry of desperation is silent. The pandemic gave new meaning to a ‘room with a view.’ From my sixth-floor loft, I watched fame, fortune, and the forgotten in the shadows among the stars. Against all odds, these photographs, taken over three years during my Covid isolation, were shot with my iPhone, from above and across, through 100-year-old wavy, dirty windows. I captured the resilient faces and untold narratives, visceral portraits of those among the stars.”

I captured the progression of my ‘companions’ and their evolving stories – Fashion Guy, Shreddy, Mannequin Gal, Professor, Umbrella Guys, and many others. As if watching a silent movie, each photograph reveals a new chapter in their lives, their daily struggles, moments of joy, the silent perseverance, all creating a stunning visual narrative that speaks volumes without uttering a single word.

This is not a book about homelessness; it is an exploration of the strength, resilience, and dignity that persist despite the adversities faced by those living on the streets of Hollywood. Through these narratives, I believe we can begin to truly understand the shared thread of our humanity. Poised to make a profound impact on hearts and emotions, “Among The Stars” has been described as “stunning,” “jaw-dropping,” and a book that “leaves you speechless.” I, personally believe it to be more than a book, it is an experience to be felt, a call to action that cannot be ignored.

“Among The Stars.” is now on all platforms for preorder including Amazon with a release date of August 24. All net proceeds will be donated to homeless humans and homeless pets.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I believe creative freedom and identity is the heart and soul of an artist; without it, you only scratch the surface of your true potential.

Looking back on my journey as an abstract artist, there are three areas that stand out as profoundly impactful: resilience, hard work, and a steadfast sense of purpose.
Resilience has been the cornerstone of my career. The path of an artist is often fraught with rejection, criticism, and moments of self-doubt. And life! Well, we all know the curve balls that come our way! For me, there were countless personal life tragedies and challenges along with the creative triumphs; it was resilience that kept me moving forward. I learned to view each challenge or roadblock as a lesson, an opportunity to strengthen my resolve. This unyielding determination allowed me to weather the storms and emerge with a deeper, more nuanced understanding of life, my journey and my art.

Hard work is another fundamental element that shaped my success. The glamorous perception of the artistic life often belies the sheer amount of dedication and effort required behind the scenes. Countless hours in the studio, experimenting with techniques, pushing the boundaries of my creativity, and honing my skills were indispensable. It is this relentless pursuit of excellence, the willingness to push beyond comfort zones and embrace the grueling process, that ultimately paved the way for my achievements.

Finally, purpose has been my guiding star. From the very beginning, my art was driven by a profound desire to communicate and connect on an emotional level. This sense of purpose gave my work meaning and direction. It wasn’t just about creating visually striking pieces; it was about evoking emotions, challenging perceptions, and inspiring introspection. This purpose infused my work with authenticity and passion, resonating with audiences on a deeper level and establishing a lasting impact.

In essence, resilience, hard work, and a clear sense of purpose were the pillars of my journey. They provided the strength to overcome challenges, the discipline to master my craft, and the vision to create art that truly matters. These qualities, I believe, are not just essential for artists, but for anyone striving to leave a meaningful mark on the world.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

Reflecting on my journey, the person who has been most instrumental in my life and my career, overcoming challenges and who by example provided the foundation for all that I am today and my success is without question, my mother. In the 1950s, she was a force of nature, a true dynamo who shattered societal expectations and redefined what it meant to be a woman in her era. Her groundbreaking spirit and relentless pursuit of her dreams amidst a landscape that often sought to confine her to predetermined roles were nothing short of revolutionary. My mother was not just a role model; she was a trailblazer. She faced countless obstacles with grace and tenacity, proving that determination and resilience could defy the most rigid of barriers and personal challenges. Her courage and strength laid the groundwork for my own path, instilling in me the belief that I, too, could break molds and forge my own way in the world – setbacks were merely bumps in the road, no matter what the challenge was or how great. Watching her navigate and overcome the challenges of her time and life provided me with a profound sense of empowerment and an unwavering belief in the power of perseverance.

In addition to my mother’s influence, I am deeply grateful for the teachers and mentors who have believed in me throughout my journey. There were always those who saw potential in me and my work and they nurtured my growth. These individuals provided not just technical guidance, but emotional support, encouraging me to push boundaries and explore new dimensions of my creativity. Their faith in my abilities often served as a beacon during times of doubt, reinforcing the idea that my ‘voice’ mattered and that my art could make a difference.

My mother and these mentors created a solid foundation upon which I could build my career. They taught me the value of resilience, the importance of hard work, and the necessity of staying true to one’s purpose. Their collective wisdom and support have been invaluable, guiding me through the challenges and triumphs of my life, as well as my artistic journey. It is their legacy of belief and encouragement that continues to inspire me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.parrilli.com www. dellamarieparrilli.com www.ParrilliWear.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dellamarieparrilli
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2A7DDsYjIc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8GCQcbmkln0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7OrkLSMVpg
• Other: en.wikipedia.org.wiki/Dellamarie_Parrilli

Image Credits

dellamarie parrilli, david rosing