Nicola Carpinelli

For Nicola Carpinelli, the paintbrush is but one of many means of self-expression. An artist, musician, poet and philanthropist, he is returning to the canvas after a ten-year hiatus where he battled thoughts of ending his own life to express his personal feelings and experiences regarding to this very sensitive subject of suicide. “Sometimes, painting your feelings can replace the act ending your own life,” says Carpinelli. “So how did I come to a point where I was able to step off of my path of self-destruction? I sought information. I read a lot. I asked questions. I found that, for me, information was power. I reached out to my family and people with similar experiences. Most importantly, I brought those feelings, that darkness, to light...on canvas.”

Dead Poets Foundation

Dead Poets Foundation was founded in 2019 by Mariel Hemingway – actor, best selling writer, and advocate, and Nicola Carpinelli – renowned artist, entrepreneur, and humanitarian. This duo created and presented their first Dead Poets Exhibit in Bend, Oregon. Bend is a beautiful idyllic community where ironically and tragically it suffers one of the highest rates of suicide in the country.

The exhibit was attended by a crowd that overflowed the venue. The many who couldn’t be inside were able to view the event from television monitors positioned outside the gallery. There was huge interest and response generated by a full spectrum of media coverage. The event was an overwhelming success.

Mariel and Nicola, knew they had delivered something special in this event – they connected.   

Mariel Hemingway

Mariel Hemingway is our advocate – our champion and voice. Enduring the tragedy and effects of multiple suicides in her family, Mariel was able to break the chain of self-destruction and live a proactive life of meaning and giving. 

Nicola Carpinelli

Nicola Carpinelli is our drive – our artist and inspiration. Having struggled with impulses of suicidal thoughts Nicola is the example of possibility. He cultivated positive resources; and through self expression and creativity dug deep to tap into the essence of life.

Your donation will help increase awareness of suicide and its prevention. Your contribution will provide resources to those in broken situations. Your help will save lives by shining the light of hope on those who struggle with thoughts of suicide. 

Your support makes a difference to one person and the world!

DEAD POETS FOUNDATION