Rocco Schiralli

I have no formal art training. I’m colorblind. I have a master’s degree in Psychology, a license in mental health counseling and a license in addictions counseling. None of these facts are good indicators which would influence someone to become a professional artist. But, that’s the way it is.

Whenever I have an intense emotional experience, soon after, or eventually, a snapshot depicting this occurrence will appear in my mind and I transfer these images onto the canvas. I know a piece of art is finished when it complements the vision in my head, my heart.

I like to refer to my method as “Altered States of Art,” a combination of surrealism and visionary styles. “Altered States of Art” are achieved and referenced in relationship to self-awareness, not a drug-induced state of mind.

When you view my work, or commission art, I’d like for you to be bombarded with the possibilities of the meaning: the overall painting, the event, subject matter, inspiration, color, emotion, and a glimmer of hope in even the most tragic of events. But, I really prefer to let my paintings do the talking.