The Melody of Vulnerability: Caroline Vreeland on Family, Art, and Authenticity
In an conversation with Author Magazine's Editor-in-Chief Oona Chanel, Caroline Vreeland delves into the defining moments of her artistic journey, from a childhood shaped by a global array of musical influences to her unflinching embrace of vulnerability in her creative expression. Vreeland’s reflections reveal the deeply personal and universal truths that continue to inspire her evolving body of work.
"PLEASE FEEL has always been my credo. I encourage people to feel their feelings, no matter how ugly or raw" - Caroline Vreeland
OONA: Looking back at your childhood, were there any pivotal moments or influences that sparked your interest in art and creativity? Can you share a cherished memory or experience that ignited your passion for self-expression?
CAROLINE: I have always had a very tumultuous relationship with my semi-estranged father, but it was his influence that first ignited my interest in music from all over the world. As a German diplomat he was posted in countless cities across they globe and would always bring interesting music to my ears. In this way, I grew up with opera, classical, reggae, blues, and jazz constantly playing in his house. Still now I tend to deviate from the more mainstream artists, mostly favoring abstract music from other cultures. I have him to thank for this…I guess I should let him know that I’m grateful for his influence. I’m thankful to have things that connect us now, as our relationship is evolving, finally. He is also the first person who played me Fiona Apple’s debut album, Tidal, which completely changed my young life.
OONA: Growing up, did you have any role models or mentors who inspired you to pursue a career in the arts? How did they shape your early artistic aspirations and beliefs about the power of creativity?
CAROLINE: When I was very young, probably around 10, my grandfather Jack used to hold family meetings called “Project Warbler” in which he would encourage everyone in the family to come up with ideas for making my love of music flourish. He even set up an easel in the dining room with our ideas on it. My pull to be an artist was always supported by my family and that made a huge impact on me. Nothing seemed impossible and everyone took my desires seriously. I think that’s greatly shaped me; it may actually be the foundation of my sparkling confidence.
OONA: Can you recall the first time you realized that you wanted to pursue a career as an artist? What were some of the initial steps you took to manifest this vision into reality?
CAROLINE: At age 8 I was cast in the roll of The Wind in the school play. I wasn’t even on stage-I had a microphone backstage and just made blowing, ethereal, wind sounds into it. Even at that tender age I clearly remember the feeling of controlling and manipulating the microphone with my voice. After that performance I enrolled in singing lessons with who would then become my vocal coach for the next 10 years. We didn’t have a lot of disposable family income but my mom made my lessons happen. Back then, I didn’t even know what sacrifices she was making in order to ensure that her daughter could train her voice and hone her craft.
OONA: on your journey from aspiring artist to established creative, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced along the way? How did you overcome them, and what lessons did you learn from those experiences?
CAROLINE: Being young in Los Angeles is wild. I’ve had countless men (and women) creep on me. People are ruthless and manipulative, especially in a place like LA, and especially in the entertainment industry. I have always believed in myself and felt strong in my convictions. I certainly never felt like a victim; these were just instances for me to learn to build my strength. Looking back, I feel proud of how I handled shady situations. I stood up for myself constantly. I may have been a bit of a wild child but I certainly maintained a strong moral compass.
OONA: As someone who embraces vulnerability and authenticity in your art, how do you navigate the journey of self-discovery and personal growth through your creative expression? Are there any ecific themes or emotions from your childhood that continue to resonate deeply in your work today?
CAROLINE: Being vulnerable and sharing this vulnerability with others has been a cornerstone to my entire identity. I have always found it more interesting to share the not-so-perfect moments as well as the glorious ones. Showing imperfections, zits, stomach flus, heartbreak, remorse for mistakes made, and overall brutal honesty on my social media from a young age has been a sort of therapy to me. I’m lucky that it garnered a positive response online. I’m grateful to have this connection with people.
CAROLINE: I used to think my daddy issues were what made me interesting and unique as an artist and I sometimes feared that if I made amends with my father, my music would no longer be interesting. Of course the opposite is true; healing and forgiveness are just as powerful (if not more so) than pain and revenge.
OONA: Looking back, is there any advice you would give to your younger self as she embarked on her artistic journey? What words of wisdom or encouragement would you offer to aspiring artists who are just beginning to explore their creative potential?
CAROLINE: PLEASE FEEL has always been my credo. I encourage people to feel their feelings, not matter how ugly or raw. I have this phrase tattooed on my body. Owning the entire range of my emotions has made me more easily able to work through tough times. In a digital world of fakeness and impossible standards of beauty and lifestyle, I find authenticity to be exceedingly rare and precious.
OONA: Finally, as you continue to evolve and expand your artistic horizons, what are some of your hopes and aspirations for the future of your creative journey? How do you envision your art making an impact on the world around you, both personally and collectively?
CAROLINE: I want to become a student again. I want to learn something completely new which humbles me and strips me bare. I have two new singing projects in the works, both of which are mostly foreign to me. I would expand on this here but I’ve learned it’s chicer to do the work in private before talking about it. Watch this space.
Interview By Oona Chanel
Image By Lawrence Cortez
