The Obelisk Questionnaire: Kelly Schilling of Dreadnought, BleakHeart and Morningstar Delirium
The Obelisk Questionnaire is a series of open questions intended to give the answerer an opportunity to explore these ideas and stories from their life as deeply as they choose. Answers can be short or long, and that reveals something in itself, but the most important factor is honesty.
Based on the Proust Questionnaire, the goal over time is to show a diverse range of perspectives as those who take part bring their own points of view to answering the same questions. To see all The Obelisk Questionnaire posts, click here.
Thank you for reading and thanks to all who participate.
The Obelisk Questionnaire: Kelly Schilling of Dreadnought, BleakHeart and Morningstar Delirium
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How do you define what you do and how did you come to do it?
I’m a musician, composer and performer. I was introduced to music at a young age, piano lessons, music in school etc., and latched onto metal as a young teen. I was inspired and impressed by the massivity and culture of heavy music and eventually gravitated towards playing guitar. Going to shows was always so inspiring, I knew that music would be my forever home.
Describe your first musical memory.
My earliest musical memories are of listening to early ’90s “boy bands” and “girl bands”. I remember making up dance routines with my friends to the Spice Girls and Britney Spears for example. Christina Aguilera was the first concert I went to, I don’t remember what age, but I was very young. Aside from that, I remember taking piano lessons as a kid and hating practicing, which is funny to think about now.
Describe your best musical memory to date.
It is tough to pick one musical memory, but some of my best memories are from going to concerts when I was a young teen. My friend and I would wait in line for hours prior to the show in order to solidify a spot front and center. I remember everyone on stage feeling so giant and otherworldly and I loved rocking out during their performance. It definitely led to what I do today.
Years of touring have also brought me a plethora of wonderful memories and I’m incredibly grateful to be able to travel and perform with my bandmates.
When was a time when a firmly held belief was tested?
I think there are many instances of being tested throughout life. I feel as if every time I get frustrated I am being tested on my kindness and patience, towards myself and others. I try my best to give others the benefit of the doubt and try to not draw conclusions too quickly.
Where do you feel artistic progression leads?
Artistic progression can lead to a greater understanding of oneself, to an understanding of personal strengths and weaknesses and how to best use ones strengths and improve upon weakness, or when to ask for help. It can lead to a deeper connection with the world and people around us, and a deeper connection with oneself.
How do you define success?
My relationship with success has taken different forms throughout my life. Success has often meant the completion of a goal, of something that has not yet been obtained and then acquired. But I also think success is having gratitude for what one has already accomplished. I think there is a balance between chasing goals and having gratitude for the present. Otherwise success can become a carrot one is always chasing. I still fall into this trap, but try my best to not get lost in wanting more.
What is something you have seen that you wish you hadn’t?
In the grand scheme of the world I wish I didn’t have to see so much hate and suffering. I wish we could rise above the dark sides of our human form and build an existence that allows everyone to flourish.
Describe something you haven’t created yet that you’d like to create.
I really love sad ambient piano music and would like to explore more with writing in that realm. I always have ideas for solo work, but that will come when time allows. Hopefully more work with Morningstar Delirium in the future too. I’d love to take classes on various crafts, such as jewelry making, painting, and ceramics, so when time allows I’ll explore some new creative paths.
What do you believe is the most essential function of art?
I think the most essential function of art is connecting to people and building community. Visual art and music for example are a language in itself that can connect people beyond words, by doing so it bridges language gaps, allowing many around the world to connect who otherwise would not be able to speak. It reminds me that we are all connected, experiencing many of the same emotions despite our different circumstances.
Something non-musical that you’re looking forward to?
Autumn time with my partner, halloween, crisp air, the color changes and all that comes with this magical time of the year.
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