We were lucky to catch up with David Dorman recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi David, thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I’ve always been creative and loved all types of art. I guess you can say I started my “art career” later in life. I had dabbled in oil painting in the 80’s and received some very nice response from people in regards to those early works.

I spent twenty years in law enforcement, raising two daughters with my wife and enjoying life. Unfortunately I suffered an injury and had to retire early. That sent me into a tailspin of recovery and healing I wasn’t prepared for.

I tried different things, private investigations, personal training, even truck driving a bit, just to name a few jobs while finding my way.

While living in Arizona I became friends with a woman who inspired me in my photography (I was doing freelance photography at the time) and eventually got me interested in painting again! That was about 15 years ago.

Flash forward to 2019 and my wife and I are now living in Oceanside. I had been painting and gathering interest from people about my work for a few years now, never thinking of it as anything more than a hobby. My mother was one of my biggest supporters and encouraged me to show my work publicly. I hadn’t up to this point, at least my paintings.

Then Mom passed away March 15, 2019. I set up a little booth at Artist Alley in Oceanside the following week.

The response and acceptance I received there from other artists as well as customers, for me as a person and my art in general, was overwhelming.

I’ve been showing and selling my work ever since!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a self taught artist. I began my journey as a form of therapy and relaxation. It was a hobby to start and has evolved into more of a lifestyle than an actual business, although sales continue as I have pieces displayed publicly in various businesses throughout North San Diego county.

My paintings are inspired by nature, the ocean, wildlife, the sky and the clouds and often times people as well. My moods play a large role in my work as well, often the colors are chosen based on mood.

Once I am inspired to create I love nothing more than to turn up the tunes in the studio, get relaxed and focus on my next project!

I guess you can say that I paint in an abstract expressionism style. Usually larger canvas (30×40 or larger), mostly acrylic paints. Often I have used household water based enamel type paints or anything I might have on hand.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and being on this creative journey is the people I find myself surrounded by and continue to meet. That includes myself!

I’ve been able to focus on the beauty of life and be happy and spread that joy and happiness around to others.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

In my case, I am older (60’s) and live a very blessed life at the beach. Through meditation and self reflection, I have been able to focus on bettering myself and finding peace.

The art I create reflects my life, my experiences, my thoughts and my ever changing moods.

People who feel they are not the creative type, just need to slow down a bit, and do some self reflection.

Art comes in many forms. I believe we all have the ability to create art. The best way is to find something that interests you, find your medium and go for it!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.DaveDormanPhotography.com
• Instagram: @Dreamwavestudio

Image Credits
David Dorman