Curiosity by Rossy de Palma

Rossy de Palma has left an indelible mark on cinema through bold performances and collaborations with directors such as Pedro Almodóvar, among other great filmmakers. Renowned for her flamboyance and charisma, she has ascended the status of muse, bringing a distinct and captivating presence to the world of film. 

Beyond her acting talent, de Palma passionately advocates for various causes. As a UNESCO Global Ambassador, she promotes cultural diversity and gender equality, while also addressing critical issues such as forced migration in the Mediterranean and climate change. In whichever situation she finds herself, de Palma stands as a powerful force, leveraging her influence to effect positive change on a global scale—an achievement befitting a true icon.

hube: We go to the theatre to enjoy acting and pretending, and yet, in real-life relationships, we value honesty and sincerity above everything else. Why is this so?

Rossy de Palma: I always say that cinema uses a lie to tell the truth, but you need to be honest and portray it as if it were real. In my opinion, the truth propels you forward, while lies hinder progress. I prefer embracing more truths in life over indulging in comforting lies.

h: You are an inspiration to millions, but who inspires you and who do you want to inspire?

RDP: I find inspiration in many things, especially nature—whether it’s the sky, a forest, the sea, sand, birdsong, or ephemeral flowers. Organic elements captivate me; I believe all art aims to emulate Mother Nature. People, particularly women artists and poets, unintentional occurrences, and those who may not intend to inspire but embody truth also inspire me. I see treasures everywhere and aspire to inspire others. Anyone who finds inspiration in me is welcome, as we all contribute to an eternal collective of creative inspiration through our expressions.

h: Why is poetry important to you?

RDP: Poetry stands as the mother of all artistic expression. Painters create poetry on canvas with colours; musicians compose poetic symphonies with musical notes; dances write poetry in the air with the body movements. Poetry reveals the imperative need of humans to express themselves, utilising art as a therapeutic means to capture even the nonsensical, to exorcise the mysteries of life. For me, poetry is as essential as breathing.

h: You are a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador and an advocate for cultural diversity, how do you use this platform? ?

RDP: My role as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador primarily revolves around advocating for artists’ status, appreciating the cultures of Indigenous peoples, celebrating cultural diversity, promoting gender equality in all cultural sectors, and recognising the talents of numerous creators in the vibrant African Fashion World.

Although my recent incorporation as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador is a work in progress, I am actively exploring ways to expand and make it more tangible. Through collaboration with Le Bon Marché, we have secured a micro-gift that will enable us to embark on new projects. I aim for my contributions to have a tangible impact.

h: Your advocacy work extends beyond UNESCO. Could you tell us about other humanitarian causes that are close to your heart? 

RDP: Immigration, or forced emigration, that has resulted in thousands of deaths in the Mediterranean, Europe’s insensitivity towards this, the refugee crisis, above all, causes related to childhood, and of course those against racism, against wars, those with respect for human dignity, climate change. I support Open Arms – ONG – ¡Ayúdanos a seguir!, and OAfrica – Keeping Children in Families.

h: How do you think the arts can help promote understanding and empathy among diverse cultures?

RDP: The arts are undoubtedly a powerful tool, but foremost, one needs curiosity—it is the master key, the true treasure that allows us to embrace empathy and admiration, even in the absence of complete understanding. 

h: What type of music do you enjoy? 

RDP: I love all kinds of music, I’m entirely eclectic. It depends on the mood or moment. Even silence can be a great tune sometimes, but I believe music is so essential for survival that even the bad one is welcome. I’m so excited because this 2024 is my Dragon year and I will finally give birth to one of my personal musical project “Soulages Music4BrokenHearts”.