We caught up with the brilliant and insightful VANESSA DALY a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi VANESSA, thanks for joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I started my artistic journey as a way to cope with stress.

It was 2010, after an unexpected critical gallbladder surgery. I was stressed out, studying like crazy to earn a scholarship for my master. That was a breaking point in my life in which I decided to take some art lessons and allow myself to have a time to relax.

Art has been there for me ever since. I explored with different mediums, like acrylic on wood, oil on canvas, resin and mixed media. I never thought this could be the beginning of an artist career. Yet, I always had had an entrepreneurial mindset. And it was my mom the one that encouraged me to exhibit my paintings at the house for a happy hour with her friends. That same night, in 2015, I landed my first collector and my first commission.

I wouldn’t change a thing because it was pure serendipity. I connected to my soul and by having the courage to show my talents, I was shown the artist’s path.

Concerning the skills, I have learned from different teachers and courses. I think I learned the most by practicing and by exploring styles, technique, mediums until I find my style.

My craft is not only about the technical skills. It’s also influenced by my background in psychology.

Art is subtle and I am blessed to say that I can connect with people and help life their emotional state. Sometimes, I just feel like a messenger. My craft goes beyond the brushstrokes. It is visceral, profound and dynamic enough to intrigue others and start conversations.

To achieve this, the most important skill is courage. Courage to show your light regardless of other’s opinions. As artists, we need to build a confident mindset as much a we need to build a concept and a great technique. Sometimes, we are the biggest barrier that is standing on our way.

My recommendation is avoiding the trap of needing to learn more and more. Let’s value what we already know, let’s be confident enough to start our journey. One step at a time.

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.

I am the artist behind Dos Santos artworks.

As an abstract artist, my work is a reflection of my deep connection to nature and my background as a psychologist.
I am a proud latina who was born in Caracas, Venezuela. I have lived and exhibited in different countries such as Colombia, Belgium, Italy and most currently, the USA where I live.

Inspired by the patterns of the natural world and the human psyche, I aim to create art that transcends boundaries and speaks to the universal human experience. Through my work, I inspire others to embrace the journey of life, to find beauty in the challenges, and to seek meaning in the chaos.

My paintings are windows into the soul, offering glimpses of insight and understanding.
I explore themes of resilience, growth, and transformation, inviting people to reflect on their own inner landscapes and embrace the complexities of the human experience.”

In a world that often feels fragmented and disconnected, my art serves as a bridge of belonging, connecting individuals across cultures, languages, and experiences. Each artwork offers a moment of clarity, a spark of inspiration that encourages viewers to pursue their dreams, overcome obstacles, and embrace the beauty of life.

I am also an avid supporter of different causes and foundations such as Make-A-Wish and FLITE to Freedom, focused on supporting children and women.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

It’s the human connection beyond words. Art transcends boundaries, colors and biases. My favorite part of being an artists is sharing the experience with people. Sharing the story behind the painting and be the witness of authentic connections that always blow my mind.
The community in Fort Worth and Dallas is amazing, and seeing how they support their local artist is humbling and make us artists continue to do what we do.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

A dear friend of mine introduced me to “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron. We read it as a book club and it was a life-changing experience.

It helped me see my inner barriers that were standing in the way of my art business and creative path.
It allowed me to understand that the feelings I was experiencing as an “arttrepreneur” were normal and part of the process. It encouraged me to take time for my inner child and my art.

I highly recommend it to every artist.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dossantosfineart.com
• Instagram: @dossantosfineart
• Facebook: @dossantosfineart