CH.89: If you were to categorize or describe the style of your artwork, what would it be and why?
DA: I see my work based both in Modernism and Abstract Expressionism. Modernism in that I do not do representational work, and enjoy innovations of color, shapes, and forms in my work. Abstract Expressionism because of the in the moment or spontaneous results during the creating.
CH.89: Where do you draw your inspiration from?
DA: Mostly from nature. All the shapes, curves, lines, and colors in my work are related to my visual response to nature.
CH.89: Can you talk a little bit about what your creative thought process is like when starting a new project/ piece of artwork?
DA: I usually start with a color scheme or palette combination. From that starting point I usually will begin editing (in my head mostly) of what I would like to see happen. I almost never do studies or sketches prior to finished works.
CH.89: Is there anything in particular that you would want people to take from your artwork?
DA: Just the pure enjoyment of the work. I want each viewer to see different things in my work. Perhaps something different each time it is viewed.
CH.89: Can you talk a little bit about your lifestyle as an artist and what that is like?
DA: I go to my studio everyday (full time artist). I really cherish having art in my everyday life, whether it be at home, studio, or sights and sounds of everyday city living.
CH.89: When starting out an artistic task, do you think it is better to have a particular direction/set plan guiding your way? Or, is it better to act on impulse and go from there?
DA: Both can work. Usually for me a rough sense of what I want helps. This can change or not. I like the sense of letting the work speak for itself, and guide me along during the process.
CH.89: What is one major lesson you’ve learned as an artist thus far?
DA: WORK, WORK, WORK !
CH.89: Do you regard personal style & taste to be of highest importance?
DA: Personal style. I prefer to call it a personal voice or cohesive statement about who I am.
CH.89: What do you consider to be the hardest thing about being an artist?
DA: Finances always are a factor as an artist. Being dedicated at all times, getting acknowledgment of your work.
CH.89: What is one thing you love about being an artist?
DA: Showing the world my individual self. Being different from everyone else in the world
CH.89: Is there anyone in particular, any artist’s that inspire you in any way?
DA: All the greats continue to inspire me. (Matisse, Picasso, Motherwell etc.) Any artist that continually wows you at every turn.
CH.89: What do you think of technology in terms of being a useful tool for artists today?
DA: I think it is fine to a point; however, I prefer the evidence of the human touch on art. When work is too perfect (machine made) I think it loses emotion.
CH.89: Do you think being an artist allows you to view the world differently from those who don’t follow creative paths?
DA: Yes. It definitely makes you see everything through an artistic eye. Visual is all I usually process first.
CH.89: Do you enjoy traveling? If so, do you have a favorite city?
DA: Yes. My next destination would be my favorite. I always get something out of every location- color, lines,the light.
CH.89: Do you have a favorite author or book?
DA: No favorites, although I usually enjoy biographies and History.
CH.89: Any future goals or plans for your artwork?
DA: Possibly creating more series based on certain color schemes, paper or size.
CH.89: What does being an artist mean to you?
DA: Everything- it’s what I am, and exist for in life.
CH.89: What’s the last song you listened to?
DA: Rhapsody in Blue (Gershwin). It is one of my most played music during work at the studio. If you listen to it while looking at my work, you will understand my vocabulary!
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