We were lucky to catch up with Dean Pagano recently and have shared our conversation below.
Dean, appreciate you joining us today. We’ve love to hear an interesting investment story – what was one of the best or worst investments you’ve made? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)
One of the most interesting investments I’ve made as an artist was in my own talent and skill development. I’ve always believed in the importance of honing my craft and pushing myself to improve, so I’ve invested a lot of time and energy into practicing, experimenting with new techniques, and seeking out feedback from other artists and mentors. I’ve been fortunate enough to have had some success in selling my artwork, but I’ve also had my share of setbacks and disappointments. While it’s always rewarding to make a sale and have someone appreciate your work enough to want to own it, I’ve learned not to place too much emphasis on external validation or financial gain.
Ultimately, I think the most important investment an artist can make is in their own creative process and personal growth. Whether or not we “win” or “lose” in the traditional sense, every experience and opportunity can be a chance to learn and improve, and to create something meaningful and impactful. So while I may not have made a fortune from my art, I consider myself incredibly lucky to be able to do what I love and to continue growing and evolving as an artist.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
My name is Dean Pagano, and I’m a self taught artist from New York. I specialize in creating cerebral expression paintings that challenge the viewer to explore complex emotions and ideas through vivid colors and bold brushstrokes.
I sell my art through a variety of channels, including on the street, through various galleries, and independently online. I believe in making my work accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or financial means, and I’m always looking for new ways to connect with potential buyers and art enthusiasts.
In addition to my visual art, I’m also a musician and songwriter. I play guitar and write music for a local band called ‘Trip the Squid’, where we explore themes of introspection, spirituality, and personal growth through our music. I believe that the creative process is a powerful tool for self-expression and self-discovery, and I’m passionate about sharing my artistic vision with others.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to express myself in a way that resonates with others. It’s truly humbling to see my work touch people and evoke emotions in them. Seeing my art bring joy, comfort, or inspiration to others is the ultimate reward. At the same time, I feel a great sense of pride in the journey that has led me to where I am today. It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge and setback has taught me something valuable about myself and my craft. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue growing and improving as an artist. Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of my fans, patrons, and fellow artists. Their encouragement and feedback have helped me to refine my style and develop my voice. I’m constantly inspired by the work of others and the sense of community that exists within the art world. In short, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the chance to connect with others through my work and to be part of a larger creative community. It’s a privilege and an honor that I never take for granted.
Can you share your view on NFTs? (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)
I have mixed feelings about NFT’s. On one hand, they provide an exciting new avenue for creators to showcase and sell their work directly to collectors. The ability to authenticate and verify ownership of digital artwork is a game-changer for the industry. At the same time, the hype surrounding NFT’s can sometimes overshadow the actual art itself, leading to a focus on the monetary value rather than the artistic merit. It’s important to remember that art should be appreciated for its intrinsic value, not just its potential to make a profit. Ultimately, my view on NFT’s is that they can be a useful tool for artists looking to share their work with a wider audience and gain recognition for their talent. However, I believe it’s important to approach them with caution and to keep the focus on the art itself, rather than the technology or financial gain.
Contact Info:
- Website: deanpagano.com
- Instagram: deantpagano