Who is Travis Parr?
My name is Travis Parr, but I’m known as PARR by those who know my work. I am a father, artist and entrepreneur. I choose a life of the arts, of ‘wild love.’ My life and my work embody this elemental principle. My work has attracted an array of personal collectors around the world. With roots in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, I grew up an avid skier, woodsman and pathfinder. After graduating from Laguna College of Art and Design with a BFA, I returned to my hometown of Evergreen, Colorado to launch and establish Icelantic Skis. I currently reside near the surf break in Laguna Beach, CA.
What Inspires You?
As an artist, I choose to work traditionally including drawing, painting, and sculpture. I was classically trained in figurative realism. The heritage and landscape of the Americas compels me to create the work that I do. As an American illustrator, my approach is dictated by the magic of the WEST. My approach to the creative process is: Action / Reaction. Humans and their environment are irrevocably interconnected. I begin by using texture and color to hint at the invisible... emotional energy – on the canvas. Then the subject evolves, capturing and reacting to that energy and emotion - providing a glimpse of the complex and broad spectrum of design.
Icelantic Skis
As Co-founder and art director, I have had the pleasure of creating the Icelantic brand. During my senior year at college, Founder Ben Anderson called me to help establish our name, our logo (the 1 Degree Celsius), and the first ski imagery 15 years ago. Since then I have been the sole visual artist, I’ve worked on all facets of the company—growing the US company to where it is today. Ben and I have been best friends since middle school: our friendship inspires and supports the ethics and culture of Icelantic Skis. Ever since middle school, Ben and I have been best friends. Our first business was in 7th grade raising chickens and selling “Evergreen Eggs” to our neighbors - which failed hahaha. We have been skiing and creating businesses together since then and it was only natural for us after college to collaborate. Friendship and trust have laid the foundation for our partnership which has grown into the Icelantic family.
