Joseph Parelhoff

Known for his use of symbolism, vibrant color schemes, and intricate patterns. Joseph Parelhoff creates chaotic compositions that find balance through recognizable forms such as masks, human anatomy, animals, plants, and other familiar objects. This process of “encapsulation” grounds his abstract imagery, giving it human context and invites viewers to connect with it on a deeper level.

Many of the symbols in his work are used repeatedly and have become iconic throughout series and compositions. They are reflective of his culture, upbringing, education, and artistic influences and are reinforced in his work to trigger self-reflection and ideological understanding among his viewers.

Although he holds no formal art degree, Joseph received an abundance of traditional art education throughout middle school, high school, college and regularly took summer courses at the Corcoran School of Arts and Design in Washington, DC. He attributes much of his success as an artist to his uninhibited approach and his prolific nature. Two attributes that he feels risk deterioration upon completion of many fine art degree programs.

Joseph has shown his work throughout the D.C. Metropolitan area, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Boston. He continues to s...

Corcoran College of Art and Design