Sierra Style

“I think art is supposed to uplift people,” Carlo D’Alessio says. “Art is supposed to come from your inner soul.” It’s this motivation that makes D’Alessio El Dorado Hills’ very own surrealist. Viewing his work in person, it’s obvious that he has clearly achieved this aim.

Born in the Bronx, Carlo attended New York School of Music and Art (a.k.a. the “Fame” school). He’s worked in advertising at Bloomingdale’s during the “wild, heyday, Studio 54” days; assisted famed sculptor Stanley Landsman, and has resided in Manhattan, Denver, Aspen, and Lake Tahoe. Variety is the spice of life, as they say!

Using a technique originally developed by Maxfield Parrish (1870-1966), D’Alessio layers acrylic paint and varnish to create a visual effect of extraordinary depth, vibrancy, and rich color. “I just know that it’s been a wonderful learning experience for me,” he says, “seeing the changes that each layer of varnish brings. It’s wonderful.” He also uses airbrush and hand painting to achieve finer details and texture.

D’Alessio’s early artistic career involved commission work, which he also enjoys. “Clients take me to places I never would have gone,” he says.

A surrealist at heart, D’Alessio’s passion for the medium is evident. “I’ve always been into Maxfield Parrish, Salvador Dali and Escher - they are my idols.” Accordingly, his work always pushes the boundaries of reality. D’Alessio’s current artwork involves aspects of nature presented in his own unique style. His cloud pieces “Up” and “Away” must be seen to be believed.

Carlo gave me a sneak preview of “Eve.” Inspired by the clear water of icy Lake Tahoe, the new work-in-progress is his first figurative piece. It’s breathtaking. Beyond that…well, you’ll just have to wait and see! For more information, visit www.carlodalessio.com.