This Artwork “SEE MORE BE MORE”, was created by Erin Palazzolo Loparo (@loparoerin) and Nina Bellucci (@nsbellucci).
Their work is displayed today as part of “Community Canvas,” an initiative presented by @gbhnews‘s @thecultureshowgbh to display artwork from community members on our digital mural.
1) Please tell us about your artistic background.
I have a diversified art practice as a registered art therapist, commissioned and exhibiting artist as well as a former high school art teacher. I double-majored in Studio Art and English from Williams College. During that time, I had the opportunity to study abroad through Syracuse University’s Art + Design program in Florence, Italy. I later pursued my Master of Science in Art Therapy at the College of New Rochelle, NY then my ATR credential. Most recently, Nina Bellucci and I collaborated on a large digital mural featured on the Community Canvas screen @WGBH.
2) Who or what were influences to your growth as an artist?
I have created art since I was a young child, encouraged by both my mother and my long-time artist teacher and printmaker, Myril Adler.
I have been positively influenced by artistic people I’ve drawn close to in my life since that time. I have a growth mindset when it comes to encountering and building friendships and collaborations with creatives. Artistically, I fell in love with the language of Abstract Expressionism (Pollock, Mitchell, Martin) beginning in college when my mother struggled with colon cancer and in her subsequent years of healing. I also turn to poetry and haikus to express myself.
3)What is your vision for this next year at the New Art with your role in the Art Therapy program?
I’m thrilled and grateful to design and lead our Art as Therapy groups for grades 6-9 these past three years. We are in a wonderful space of expanding to the program, having now added Creative Connections for grades 4-5. We are also turning to community partners to help fund a possible summertime option.
4) What does teaching/facilitating access to art experiences mean to you?
Art therapy may not be familiar to most people. It combines active hands-on artmaking with training rooted in psychology and developing the well-being of the whole person. I feel called to this work. I lean into it with my own art practice and life as an example to join or partner with people on their own unique journeys. It’s very rewarding (it fills my cup!) to socialize our therapeutic artmaking experience. Art therapy is a highly responsive experience and accessible to people of all ages and walks of life!
5)What would you tell someone considering going into the arts?
As my kids would say, “Trust” :) Or trust the process of what’s unfolding inside of you. Seek trusted people or mentors to help you grow your skill sets and make connections. Find supportive co-workers and employers at organizations whose mission inspires you and who treat you with respect, like they do at New Art Center!
6)What do you like to do other than art?
Exercise – need that physical release! Yoga, pilates, etc. And spending time supporting the talents and loves of my life – my husband and three children in Brookline.
7) Favorite Mantra:
(At the moment) “LOOSEN.”
We’ll be highlighting staff and faculty artists throughout the year. Erin leads Art Therapy Program at the New Art Center and currently is showing at the ‘Sensory Garden Exhibition’ at The New Art Corridor
