Q&A with Artist John Paradiso
Questions by Tim Brown, Hillyer Director
Tim Brown (TB):
In the special exhibition Pulse 2023, you feature several works that appear to be consistent with topics you have explored in the past that address identity and male sexuality. The superimposed patterns over some of the works however suggest a more complex and nuanced interpretation. What more can you tell us about them?
John Paradiso (JP):
When talking about sexuality in my work, I use methods and/or materials that are both traditionally thought of as feminine and masculine. The work in this show focuses on leather culture and I am attracted to the hyper masculine qualities of Gay Leather men. In Leather Boy, I hand stitch the figure on repurposed leather, my friend Ryan’s old leather pants. The collages have crocheted and vintage paper doilies over images of men in leather gear. I feel these ad a feminine touch, and I just like the layering of delicate floral paper or crocheted doilies over a hyper masculine man. My hope is that the masculine qualities of the pieces become more fluid.
(TB):
When did you join Hillyer’s advisory committee and what has been your primary role since that time? Specifically, has your role been to select artists for Hillyer’s annual exhibitions or have you done other things, such as organize and or curate exhibitions?
(JP):
I can’t remember when I was asked to join the Advisory group, but I would say I’ve been on it for about 10 years. My primary role has been to help sort through the submissions and find the artists that will have exhibitions the following year. I have also been assigned artists to help mentor in ways they may need. I have helped several of the artists that I have worked with install their shows as well as studio visits.
(TB):
What would you say is your most memorable experience as an artist advisory committee member?
(JP):
I will answer a different question. What I most like about participating on the advisory committee is getting a stack of 125 to 200 submissions each year and seeing all the art that’s being created. I usually know some of the submitting artists and I love being introduced to new art. I always find it interesting reading how artists represent and promote their own work.
(TB):
Since Hillyer was founded in 2006, the gallery has provided exhibition opportunities for new and emerging artists. Why do you feel this is important for aspiring artists? Can you recall when you had your first solo exhibition? How did this opportunity impact your career?
(JP):
I think its important to get one’s art out into the world. Hillyer is a good resource and a great space.
My first solo show was in 1984 in a small neighborhood gay bar in my hometown. I pursued the opportunity, hung the show, and promoted it. As I have never had gallery representation, I continue to seek out opportunities to show my work. I spend 25% of my studio time doing promotional and administrative work.
(TB):
What advice would you give to aspiring contemporary artists living and working in society today?
(JP):
Define for yourself what success looks like. Work hard in your studio. Go look at art. Help other artists when you can. Show up for your art when you get into an exhibition. Help promote it, invite your friends, and visit the gallery often during the run of the show.
(TB):
If visitors to the gallery would like to learn more about your work, how should they go about doing that?
(JP):
They can visit my website at john-paradiso.com or my studio by appointment. My studio is located at Portico Gallery and Studios in Brentwood MD just over the DC line on Rhode Island Ave.
