Can you tell me a little bit about you?
I am currently living in Upstate NY but am moving to Brooklyn in the spring! I went to school at MICA in Baltimore where I studied graphic design but fell in love with painting and have been continuing my practice ever since. I am transgender and while I do not believe that fuels my art practice or has much to do with it, I do accept that it has gifted me a lot of perspective that I was unable to access previously.
When did you first discover art, or realize you wanted to make it yourself?
When I was forced to take my first painting class at MICA (which I did NOT want to take)! But the second my brush hit my first canvas I was in love and haven’t stopped since.
What ideas are you exploring in your practice?
When making my work I like to think about survival, and what it means to survive in our overshared, highly digital society. How does it compare to being stranded on a deserted island? In many ways, the internet is like a dream-like realm, separate from society and impossible to grasp. There is the push and pull of isolation and community, as well as the desire to escape the harsh realities of everyday life through a digital space.
What is your process like?
Since I work with oils I work on many pieces at once, constantly testing my patience with drying times. This also forces me to be more considerate of my next move. I don’t plan out my work like I used to in the past, but I definitely take my time waiting for the right feeling to continue a piece.
What is your favorite material to work with?
Oil because it is slippery and sensual. And because it’s a pain! (It’s a love/hate relationship)
What are you passionate about?
I am very interested in health, and how we are able to heal our bodies and spirits through food, meditation, exercise, herbs, etc.
Is there any subject or theme you’ve been particularly interested in lately?
I’ve been very interested in exploring different paint applications, and seeing how far you can push paint. I’ve been looking at a lot of Gerhard Richter and Michael Krebber.
What is the most surprising response you’ve received about your work from someone?
In response to one of my new “Fight Me!” paintings, someone challenged me to a fight. Bring it on!!!!
Do you have a day job or other work that you split your time between?
I do graphic design professionally. I tend to enjoy jobs that don’t require much creativity so I can save that fuel for my art practice.
Is there any piece of advice you would offer to others?
Life is short. Fuck shit up.
What does it mean to you to have a “community?”
I don’t have much of an art community in my real life, but in a digital space it has become very important for me to connect with different artists and feel a part of something whole. It makes doing what you do feel a little more important and a little less lonely.
How would you define “success” in art?
When you step back from a piece and look at it and get that special feeling in your whole body.
What is the last thing you read?
In Watermelon Sugar by Richard Brautigan
What are you working on right now?
Finishing this bowl of vegan alfredo 💕
Find more at daniarnica.com and on Instagram @dani.arnica!
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