Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Deanna Aliano. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Deanna, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

Most people assume I’ve been painting my entire life, but my journey into the art world began much later, in 2017, when I was in my late forties. I’ve always been creative, but it wasn’t until I painted a sloth for a close friend’s 50th birthday that I discovered my passion for painting. The gift was a last-minute idea, inspired by her love of sloths, and something about the experience just clicked.
From that moment, I knew I wanted to paint. I found a joy and sense of fulfillment I hadn’t experienced before. My second attempt—two small abstract pieces—taught me that art wasn’t as easy as it looks, but it only deepened my fascination with the process. Since then, I’ve painted almost every day. I started sharing my art online and friends and family showed interest in buying my pieces.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a self-taught artist who discovered my passion for painting in 2017, later in life, in my late forties. For years, I’d always been creative in some form, but it wasn’t until I painted a sloth for a friend’s birthday gift that I realized how much I loved painting. That one spontaneous decision ignited a passion that changed the course of my life, and since then, I’ve made art my professional path.

I paint almost every day and work with various mediums, including acrylics, watercolor, inks, and mixed media. My creative works range from bold, vibrant paintings to more delicate, intricate pieces that often feature nature, animals, and abstract designs. I provide original artwork, custom commissions, and fine art prints. My work is available online, and I also participate in art shows, with my pieces featured in galleries and exhibits.

What sets me apart from others is the journey that brought me here—starting my artistic career later in life and with no formal training. I believe this has allowed me to approach my work with a unique perspective, continuously evolving and experimenting with new techniques. I aim to create art that resonates emotionally with people, connecting them to a sense of joy, nostalgia, or calm. For many of my clients, art is personal, and my goal is to bring that personal connection to life through my work.

One thing I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come since 2017. From my first sloth painting to where I am today, I’ve had opportunities to participate in numerous art shows, gain media exposure through books and podcasts, and in the last couple years I have begun teaching art classes. I love being able to inspire others to realize that it’s never too late to start something new, whether that’s in art or another field. “I’m also proud to have contributed to the number one best-selling book collaborations, ‘Creative Life Book’ and ‘Radical Freedom.’ These projects gave me the opportunity to share my story and inspire others on a broader scale, reflecting my belief that it’s never too late to tap into your creativity and embrace new possibilities.

For my potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that my art is about connection. Every piece I create is made with intention, whether it’s a vibrant painting to uplift someone’s space or a custom commission that holds deep personal meaning. I’m always open to collaborating with clients to bring their visions to life, and I believe that art should be accessible and meaningful to everyone.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

One of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist is knowing that my work is not only appreciated but that it also brings joy to others. It’s incredibly fulfilling to share my art with collectors and to know that my pieces are brightening their homes and spaces. I feel honored every time someone chooses my art to be a part of their life—it’s a special connection that I truly cherish.

In addition to creating, I also teach art classes, and that has become another deeply rewarding part of my journey. Helping people discover their own creativity and natural talent is an incredible experience. There’s nothing quite like watching someone who may not have considered themselves “artistic” before, start to create something beautiful, learning new techniques, and realizing their own potential. It’s a privilege to be a part of that process.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Absolutely! One of my core missions is to inspire other artists and creatives to realize that we are all individuals, with unique talents and dreams, and that achieving those goals is entirely possible. I want to show people that creativity doesn’t have to follow a set path—it can bloom at any stage in life. My own journey is proof that there’s often hidden potential within us that we might not even know exists.

I’ve learned that many people are creative without even realizing it. By sharing my story and my art, I hope to encourage others to explore their creativity, trust their instincts, and take that leap toward their passions. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been on a creative path for years, I believe we all have the ability to reach our dreams.

I want people to see that it’s never too late to start something new, and there’s power in embracing the individuality that makes each of us—and our art—unique.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.artbydeanna.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbydeannaaliano/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deanna.aliano/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-aliano-3742b428