Al Parella started his career by graduating from the Cleveland School of Art in 1932. He entered the U.S. Air Force as a graphic artist and assisted in producing training aids. He was also a camouflage expert. Returning from military service Al taught commercial art at the Butler Institute of American Art and classes in advertising at Youngstown University. He went on to be the art director of WKBN-TV here in Youngstown for 25 years. Mr. Parella showed his paintings in all national shows and won several important awards. His work has hung in over 100 galleries and museums. Today many private art collections include his watercolors.