MEET DION PARKER
What was the inspiration behind your piece for SWELL Sculpture Festival 2022?
The inspiration for this years work is celebrating the fantastical imagination of children. I used the character Max from Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak, and my own character lil Dusty inside Max’s wolf suit. I loved the story as a child and loved reading it with my son when he was young.
What does exhibiting in the 20th year of SWELL Sculpture Festival mean to you?
It’s an honour to be a part of a festival that has become such an important part in the fabric of Gold Coast culture.
Do you think coriander tastes like soap?
In think about a lot of things. But not that.
What might people be surprised to learn about you?
Hmmmm. Honestly i don’t know. I’m not really that surprising.
Do you have any artist pet peeves? What are they?
Synthetic polymer. Just call it acrylic.
You went to grab your favourite mug, but have found a Genie living inside of it – what are your three wishes?
- That my dog didn’t get cancer.
- The surf was way less crowded
- Money wasn’t necessary
Are there any budding artists that you’re excited to see evolve?
My apprentice Courtenay McCue.
I’m a big fan of the work Of Adrienne kenefake.
What is the strangest food combo that you love?
Peanut butter carrot and sultan sandwiches
If you have one, what is your spirit animal?
Kingfisher.
Do you have a favourite quote or mantra that you live by?
Not really. But I suppose it’s better to try and fail than not try at all.
What is your favourite snack when working on big projects?
$3 tacos from Guzman
Does music impact your art? What kind of music do you create to?
I love listening to music while I work. My music taste depends a lot on my mood at the time.
The Author
Joss Smith is an emerging graphic designer based in Tweed Heads, loving everything visual and immersive. Her passion for the creative arts has led her to study a Bachelor of Visual Communication and Graphics. She hopes to balance her love for the arts, culture and nature with her strengths in communication and management to create wicked designs with wicked people.