We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful PORSCHIA DANIELLE Dixon. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with PORSCHIA DANIELLE below.
PORSCHIA DANIELLE, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
The most meaningful project in my artistic journey has been creating a portrait of Paul Rusesabagina, the humanitarian whose courage saved over 1,200 lives during the Rwandan genocide in the 1990s. This opportunity emerged from an unexpected source — a simple conversation at my neighborhood coffee shop in 2024. I had begun frequenting this cozy spot just minutes from my home while working remotely on my day job, and during one of these coffee shop work sessions, a friendly stranger struck up a conversation. As we continued to cross paths over the following weeks, our casual chats evolved into more meaningful discussions. I found myself particularly resonating with his personal philosophy and approach to life.
Eventually, he revealed he was the founder and CEO of Students of Service San Antonio, a nonprofit that develops young leaders by combining local community service with international experiences. While the organization’s mission of empowering youth certainly resonated with me, it was actually the founder’s personal beliefs and values that formed our strongest connection. His commitment to meaningful service and a global perspective aligned deeply with my own core values of faith, connection, and kindness.
When I learned the organization was celebrating its 10th anniversary with a fundraising gala, I felt compelled to contribute. Having devoted over seven years to developing my artistic practice, I offered to create a painting to be auctioned off. To my surprise, this offer evolved into something far more significant — an opportunity to honor their distinguished guest, Paul Rusesabagina himself.
Though I had some knowledge of the Rwandan genocide, I realized I needed to understand the full context of Paul’s heroism. I attended a screening of “Hotel Rwanda” hosted by the organization, followed by a panel discussion featuring Paul’s son. The experience was profoundly moving, deepening my respect for this humble hero who had risked everything to protect others.
In October, I had the extraordinary privilege of presenting my completed portrait to Paul. The process of creating this painting transformed me as I immersed myself in his story — a powerful testament to how one person’s unwavering commitment to their values can change hundreds of lives.
What made this project truly meaningful wasn’t measured in financial gain (I donated the painting without compensation) but in the connections fostered. Paul’s genuine gratitude for my work was humbling. Here was a man who had performed extraordinary acts of courage, yet viewed himself as simply an ordinary person who did what was right.
Through my sunset-inspired color palette, I sought to capture not just his likeness but the warmth of his humanity and the light he brought in such darkness. This project embodied everything I value as an artist – faith, authenticity, connection, kindness, and joy – while reminding me of art’s power to honor stories that must never be forgotten and to connect people with unlikely journeys.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My journey as an artist began eight years ago, though my creativity has always been woven into the fabric of my life. Initially, I chose a path in construction engineering for its stability and practicality, but promised myself that someday I would return to art when the time felt right. That moment arrived in 2017 during a significant life transition. I had moved into a new apartment and was working night shifts in a career that left me feeling overworked and uninspired. One day, returning home from work, I found myself overwhelmed by the gray monotony of corporate life. Craving color and expression, I made a spontaneous trip to the craft store where I purchased a large canvas and some neutral paints with metallic accents.
That first simple painting, which still hangs on my wall today, became a turning point. I quickly gravitated toward a vibrant color palette that reflected my true self — a stark contrast to the structured world of engineering. The joy I experienced while creating that piece reconnected me with an essential part of who I am.
Today, my creative practice encompasses acrylic paintings featuring sunset-inspired color schemes, limited edition fine art prints, and digital artwork created using Procreate on my iPad. This multi-tiered approach allows me to make art accessible across various price points — from free digital downloads that can be printed at 5×7″ to original canvases that can measure up to 30×40″.
What drives my work is a desire to help people pause and appreciate the everyday beauty surrounding them. My sunset-inspired pieces serve as reminders that each day, nature unveils the most magnificent painting imaginable across the sky — a masterpiece we often miss in our busy lives. Through my art, I hope to evoke joy and a renewed sense of appreciation for these simple wonders, whether they’re found in nature or in our interaction with loved ones.
Art isn’t just something to look at — it’s something to feel. This experience is scientifically proven to have positive effects on our wellbeing, and I’m passionate about bringing those benefits to my collectors. While I do offer investment-worthy originals, I believe strongly that art should be accessible to everyone, which is why my offerings range from free downloads to $25 posters to archival-quality limited editions fine art prints and original paintings.
What truly sets me apart is that my work is guided by my core values of faith, authenticity, connection, kindness, and joy. Beyond self-expression — I see my creativity as a gift from God to be used in building His kingdom and sharing the gospel through beauty and color. This spiritual foundation infuses every piece I create.
I’m most proud of the visible impact my art has on those who experience it. When visitors enter my studio, I watch their entire countenance shift as they are surrounded by the vibrancy of my work. I’m also proud of pursuing this artistic path at this stage in my life – as a wife, mother, and established engineer – following my conviction that I’m meant to be a full-time artist despite having already built a successful career.
For potential collectors considering my work, I want them to know that art is an experience — if a piece speaks to you, it’s stirring something meaningful within you. I’m dedicated to consistent growth as an artist, maintaining my studio presence in San Antonio, and continually refining my craft while sharing the joy and hope that inspires my work. I’m truly grateful that so many people resonate with my art, and I hope to connect with even more collectors who find meaning in these vibrant celebrations of color and faith.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
My journey as an artist required me to unlearn perhaps the most pervasive myth I’d internalized: that being an artist wasn’t a “real” career worth pursuing. Growing up, I was academically driven — a straight-A student who became a National Achievement Scholarship finalist based on my PSAT scores and eventually earned a full academic scholarship to Florida A&M University. In high school, I was tracked into the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program, where I received constant messaging about the prestige, stability, and earning potential of engineering- and science-based careers. These messages were only reinforced in college.
I remember the first thing I knew I wanted to “be when I grew up” was an artist. Though I can’t recall the exact words spoken in response, I remember the feeling that settled within me — that my dream was perceived as cute but unrealistic. The unspoken message was clear: “That’s adorable. Now pick something real.”
That subtle dismissal shaped my decisions for years. I channeled my intelligence and work ethic into practical disciplines, eventually landing on construction engineering, convincing myself that creativity could remain a hobby while my “serious” career provided financial security. The narrative that artists struggle – that pursuing art meant choosing passion over practicality – had been so deeply embedded in my thinking that I didn’t question it until years into my engineering career.
The process of unlearning these limiting beliefs has been transformative. With each painting I complete, I’m dismantling the false dichotomy in my mind between meaningful work and financial stability. I’m discovering that my artistic vision – infused with faith, authenticity, and joy – has tangible value beyond what I once believed possible.
What’s been most surprising is how this mental shift has affected my creative process. While I’m still building toward consistent sales and a collector base, my faith grows stronger with each new person who connects with my work. Every positive response, every moment someone pauses in front of one of my pieces — these small victories reinforce that I’m on the right path, even as I navigate the early stages of this career transition.
This unlearning process continues daily. As my art receives more exposure and attention, I find my confidence strengthening. I’m learning to trust the process, to embrace the uncertain path of the creative entrepreneur with the same analytical mindset I once applied to engineering problems. I believe deeply that my sunset-inspired creations will eventually support me fully — not because the art world owes me success, but because sharing beauty and joy through color fulfills my purpose in a way that engineering never could.
Each time I step into my studio instead of an office cubicle, each time I price a painting at its true value rather than apologetically, I’m reinforcing a new narrative — one where art isn’t just a valid career choice, but for me, the only choice that honors my deepest calling.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
When asked about resources that have significantly impacted my entrepreneurial thinking, I have to start with an answer that might make some readers pause — but I promise, there’s something universal here even if you typically scroll past mentions of religion. The Bible has been my foundational guide as both an artist and entrepreneur. One parable in particular in Matthew 25 profoundly shapes my approach to my artistic gifts. In it, a master entrusts three servants with talents before departing on a journey. Upon his return, two servants have invested and multiplied their talents, while the third – fearing failure – simply buried his single talent in the ground. The master harshly calls this servant “wicked” and gives his single talent to the servant who produced the most.
This story resonates deeply with me as an artist. I understand that my creative abilities are gifts entrusted to me for a purpose beyond myself. When I hesitate to fully pursue my artistic calling out of fear – concerns about financial instability or professional authority – I’m essentially burying my talent. The parable reminds me that being a good steward of my gifts means actively developing them, taking calculated risks, and trusting that the Provider of those gifts will sustain me through the journey.
Beyond spiritual wisdom, I’ve found tremendous practical guidance in several contemporary resources. “How to Sell Your Art Online” by Cory Huff was so valuable that I renewed my library copy twice! As someone balancing a full-time career, family responsibilities, and artistic pursuits, I’ve had to be strategic about leveraging digital platforms to reach collectors. Huff’s insights showed me what was possible for artists with limited time but unlimited passion, providing actionable strategies for building an online presence.
Another indispensable resource has been “Art/Work” by Heather Darcy Bhandari and Jonathan Melber. This comprehensive guide covers virtually everything an emerging artist needs to know about the business side of art — from gallery relationships to invoice forms. While taking a more traditional approach than Huff’s digital focus, it provides the essential foundation for attracting serious collectors and navigating the established art world.
Finally, Sam Vander Wielen’s “On Your Terms” podcast and her “Ultimate Bundle” product have been invaluable for addressing the legal aspects of my creative business. As someone who approaches problems analytically (perhaps the engineer in me!), I needed to ensure my online presence was properly protected. Her expertise in legal considerations for creative entrepreneurs helped me overcome one of my biggest hurdles — ensuring my growing art business was built on a secure foundation.
These resources – one ancient yet alive, three contemporary – form a large part of the compass by which I am navigating my transition from engineer to artist. Each contributes unique wisdom to my entrepreneurial philosophy: honoring my gifts with courage, embracing digital possibilities, understanding traditional art business practices, and protecting what I’m building with proper legal structures. Together, they’ve equipped me to pursue my sunset-inspired vision with both spiritual purpose and practical savvy.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.pdanielleartwork.com
- Instagram: @pdanielleartwork