Meet Dante Perozzi
Dante Perozzi
Where are you from and does it affect your work?
I have moved around a ton in my life, so it's not easy to sum up. I was born in Zimbabwe, lived in places like Virginia, Louisiana, South Carolina, sailed on a boat along the US east coast and into the Caribbean, and finally settled in Arizona. The longest I stayed anywhere was 12 years in California, but I was just 21 when I got there. I think all that moving around made me more open to taking risks, trying new things, and not being afraid of big changes or new ideas.
Very cool! Do you have any artistic influences?
Yes! Other than finding beauty in formal attributes and shapes - I am always moved and inspired by sculpture. Some favorites that I can think of right now are Louise Nevelson, Gordon Matta Clark, Robert Motherwell, Carl Andre, Eva Hesse.
How do you define success as an artist?
Success as an artist is creating something that can affect the thoughts or emotions of others through my creations. They have an impact and can be absorbed/appreciated by an audience. In the case of jewelry, I feel successful when I see someone light up when they find or wear my my jewelry.
What’s the hardest part of your creation process?
Knowing when to stop! I have endless ideas and I could make new designs indefinitely. But I have learned to hold myself back otherwise I become buried by the production of too many pieces at a time. Patience doesn’t come easily to me.
Has your style changed over time?
I went from working with very clean lines, straight edges, smooth surfaces with sharp angled designs that were highly structural in nature to the complete opposite end of the spectrum! I am currently making pieces that are highly textural, and more organic in form. It’s funny to think about how very different my work is now.
Ya we can spot the difference from when you first started doing our fairs! How have you continued to develop your skillset as an artist?
I have steadily added skills to my knowledge base from the beginning. I thrive off of a design challenge-and since I don't let my personal skillset limit my ideas, I am often seeking out knowledge via courses or local resources in order to bring my idea to life.
What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?
I could never pick a favorite. But I’ll say that I am really enjoying making chains lately. I have a beautiful new piece called the Nara Chain and I find it mesmerizing. I can definitely see more unique chain making in my future.
Can’t wait to see what you will create next! And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?
I have been in Colorado for 5.5 years now and the beauty of this state is truly incomparable, I have also really grown to love the active and engaged community of people I have found here. I have 2 young boys that I am very grateful to be able to raise in this special place.
Can’t wait to be back there next week! Catch Dante Perozzi at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th