Art, // October 26, 2023

Claudio Parentela — ARTIST

Claudio Parentela

Interview with artist Claudio Parentela —

1. Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Claudio Parentela, I am 61 years old and I live in Italy, in Southern Italy precisely, in Calabria. I am an artist… I glue, cut, draw, paint, tear, photograph, play with my camera and film.

2. Why art?
Many many years ago I decided that I wanted to live on art, with art, breathe art, sleep and eat art. I couldn’t live without it…art is my music, the blood that flows in my veins, the only book I know and want to read, the only wonderful way I have chosen to be in the world.

3. What is your first memory of wanting to be an artist?
At 35 years old… it was back in 1995 I think… I made a clean break with my past, which had become unbearable, it no longer belonged to me. I decided then that I had to really live, be alive, real, honest with myself. I followed my heart, which showed me what I had to be and become, day after day.

4. What are your favorite topics and media?
Everything that attracts my attention, my restless gaze… books I read, comics, magazines, zines, music… lots and lots of music above all.
I don’t like to plan anything in advance, and I don’t like to plan anything at all… I like to experiment with everything I have at hand, there isn’t a medium that I prefer, no. Experimenting is essential and fun for me.

5. How do you work and how do you approach your subject?
Everything always happens by magic. It’s a kind of cathartic ritual. I put on some music and thoughts, sensations, colours, lines flow… always, punctually.

6. What works of art and artists inspire you?
Carlo Zinelli, Diamanda Galas, and Joel Peter Witkin. I love everything they did, pure light…

7. What are the best responses you’ve had to your work?
I love everything you tell me, it’s all important and precious. Art is communication and exchange, every word or sensation and thought helps me grow artistically and humanly.

8. What do you like about your job?
The freedom it gives me.