Today we’d like to introduce you to Dan Shaughnessy Iv

Hi Dan, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

For me, it all started with welding. I went to a Middle School that actually had a Metal Shop. I immediately feel in love with it and gradually learned more and more. By the time I got to High School, I began leaning into the sculptural side. I had a wonderful teacher at the time, Bob Mosier, who feathered the flame of my curiosity. He’s the kind of teacher that will let you make your own mistakes, giving his students the freedom to fail. Once High School was finished, I was accepted to The School of The Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) in 2009. Overtime, I slowly began to learn more about the sculpture world in Chicago. It was the perfect place for me to apprentice for various artists, working on larger and larger work. For several years, I was an apprentice with 3 mentors, learning as much as I could. Now, DSIV has moved to New York where we focus on creating landmark sculptures. We specialize in creating larger-than-life interactive artwork.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

Of course not. I feel most creatives lives are similar to a roller coaster, having good periods as well as bad. I recently lost a project I spent over 8 months on with my team. It was heartbreaking. Even my own father said, “What are you doing with your life?”. But I had to pick myself up and go again. I think those failures are important moments. A year later, I bided on a similar project, and won. Now this doesn’t always happen, but this time around I had no fear, which enabled me to not hold back.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

At DSIV we specialize in fabricating larger-than-life landmark sculptures. I truly believe the future of public art will be predicated on the balance of sculpture + technology. We take great pride in creating monuments that have the ability to get better over time. We use sensors and data to ensure the viewer will have a unique one on one moment with the art. We believe that public art should grow overtime, creating long lasting bonds with their communities.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?

I will say I have taken some serious risks. Whether it was working for a mentor, or my own work, I have definitely hurt myself working on public work. I have 2 fingers with nerve damage and I had a gantry fall on my elbow. Now I have much calmer view and always do my best take my time. On the business side of things, I think as a creative you need to take risks and find a way to get your name out there.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.dsivstudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ds__iv/?hl=en

Image Credits

Lorax – 22′ Stainless Dandelion
Splice – 7′ Stainless Standing Lamp
Giraffe Project – 22′ Giraffe / 7′
Palm Beach Blooms – 15′ Dandelions