Meet Parris Douglas | Multi disciplinary artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Parris Douglas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Parris, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Outside of the actual work itself, one of the most crucial factors in my success has been community. The people who surround me and offer their support and encouragement have played an integral role in my journey. Without them, I’d likely still be painting alone in my room, with no one aware of my work. Their presence has lifted me up, provided invaluable feedback, and helped me navigate the challenges of the artistic path. I owe a great deal of my success to their unwavering support and belief in me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My artwork speaks on the dichotomy of beauty and darkness within the urban landscape. Most of my work serves as a mirror, inviting viewers to engage in introspection and self-reflection.

The artworks describe the trials and tribulations of urban life, showing both the glitz and the haunting nightmares that coexist within these environments. Through bold colors, intricate details, and arousing imagery, my paintings bring a sense of intensity and perhaps even intimidation upon first glance.

However, beneath the surface lies a deeper message – i’d like to think of my work as an invitation to look beyond the surface and confront the inner beauty within oneself. By encouraging viewers to see things as they truly are, rather than how they wish them to be, “ while finding my calling I feel I’m laying a pathway to understanding and personal growth.

I want my art to serve as a reminder that by embracing our inner complexities and confronting our fears, we can unlock new horizons and face any challenge with courage and resilience.

What sets me apart from other artists is that I haven’t had any formal training in my craft. Instead, I’ve dedicated over a decade to developing my unique style. My work captures the essence of our era, especially with characters wearing the iconic Yankee fitted cap.

I draw inspiration from the culture around me and send it back through my own lens. My art speaks on the experiences of the everyday person living in the city, touching on topics that resonate deeply with urban dwellers.

And most of my pieces feature my signature building skyline, this is my visual stamp . . I want the masses to instantly recognize my art and know that it’s my creation. Through my style and perspective, I look to give back to the culture that has shaped me.

I’d like to think i’proud of all my work . Some more than others . But I’m most excited about creating new expressions and being able to showcase a solo exhibition in the near future.

I’m still in the process of unlocking my full potential. I understand that I haven’t mastered everything, and I’m not yet the creator I aspire to be. However, I’ve come to realize the importance of embracing the journey and cherishing the progress I’ve made so far.

Reaching this point required making sacrifices—missing out on parties and other distractions, saying no to things that didn’t align with my long-term goals, and prioritizing networking and consistent creation. Through it all, I’ve learned that genuine passion for what you do is essential for success.

Navigating challenges wasn’t easy, but I remained grounded by staying consistent. As my old mentor used to say, “Consistency beats talent always.” And if you have both, seize the opportunity.

I want the world to know that I’m just a guy from Manhattan, navigating life’s ups and downs like everyone else. We all face obstacles, but having faith and focusing on what we can control can lead us through them one day at a time.

It’s never too late to pursue your dreams. It all starts and ends with you.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m from the Upper West Side, surrounded by of Central Park, Morningside Park, and Riverside Park, with stunning views of New Jersey across the river. So a good walk in great weather is always a move . We have everything you can imagine here. I love stopping by Koronet’s for the city’s biggest slices or grabbing a meal at Tom’s Diner, made famous by “Seinfeld.”

A few train stops down, the High Line offers a whole new feel for the city. And there are amazing museums like the Whitney and MoMA to explore.

In the evening, I often head to SoHo for some shopping. The area is a cultural melting pot, from Chinatown to Little Italy. You can even find a good club there in the evening. And for inspiration and soul food,
Harlem is always a great choice.

I never know where I’m at in Brooklyn
But it’s always a good time out there whether it’s food, my boys djing a party or an art gallery . So if we needed up there
That would be a great night as-well.

We usually just pick an area on the map for dinner. There are so many fantastic places to eat, but where we go depends on the person and what they’re in the mood for. It’s always an adventure!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

As I take a moment to reflect on my journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for each and every one of you who has played a significant role in shaping my path as an artist.

First and foremost, I want to extend my deepest appreciation to my creator for blessing me with the talents and determination to transform my ideas into tangible expressions. Without this gift, none of this would have been possible.

To my family but especially my dear mother , grandmother , aunts and sister. Your unwavering support and strength have been my rock throughout this journey. You’ve held our family together while I navigated the twists and turns of self-discovery. Your honesty and love have guided me through both the brightest and darkest moments, and I promise to honor our bond by ensuring that every decision I make is purposeful.

Cheyenne Herrera, your belief in me from my first show in Brooklyn almost 3 years ago has been a beacon of light on this path. Your care and encouragement have fueled my confidence, even when doubts clouded my vision. I am forever grateful for the doors you opened and the opportunities you provided, and I vow to pay it forward when the time comes.

To Pierre Sighn, my brother since the third grade, your unwavering loyalty and support have meant the world to me. From helping me showcase my art at various shows to simply believing in my childhood dreams, your presence has been a constant source of motivation.

To all the other incredible individuals who have touched my life in countless ways—whether through a phone call filled with words of encouragement, valuable feedback, a roof over my head, or an opportunity to further my career—thank you. Each of you has played a unique role in my journey, and I am eternally grateful for your kindness, generosity, and belief in me. I also want to give a shout out to:

Cousin chrissy
Oshea L
Ace Ghost
Natasha N
Sherod M
Bert C
Dwight (cafe melo gallery)
Philip N
Christopher G
Greg C
Willis T
Kenyatta M
Tyshawn B
Marc P
Aaron R
Samuel W
Saheem A
Jeffrey F
Jonah R
Jj P
Aaron B.
Nicholas V
Smoove

Please know that each and every one of you holds a special place in my heart. Your support has been the driving force behind my success, and I am deeply thankful for the impact you’ve had on my life.
Thank you .

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paint_douglas/?hl=en

Image Credits
Artist photo Kenyatta Meadows @yattabombata