Today we’d like to introduce you to Dana Powell Smith

Hi Dana, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.

After being a closet creator for decades, happenings during the pandemic in 2020 is what got me going.

Growing up in an art family, art was just a part of life for us. I always had supply’s at my fingertips for whenever the spirit hit me. However after I started a family and a near fatal accident a few years later, I was thrown completely off course.

In 2020 with the unrest, the Marches and the Police killings of Black men, I was at my whits end! I was angry, frustrated, uncertain, you name it.

After two long weeks of hearing the voice in my head “YOU HAVE TO PAINT” I finally acquiesced.

Propelled to my garage by the voice I began painting. I have painted daily ever since.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

The main struggle along the way for me was imposter syndrome. When I was accepted to shows, I wasn’t sure how or why. When people wanted to purchase my art I didn’t understand. All of these things confirmed that I was doing what I should be doing. However it was all very strange to me. You see I had never dreamed of being a professional visual artist. I painted and created for myself. It was just something I enjoyed doing. I never wanted to show nor sell my art.

The universe knew different. Once I announced that I sold my first painting, the commissions came rolling in. Boy was that scary!!! I like a challenge so I accepted them. The first one was the most difficult. I would get physically ill when I walked into my studio to get it started. It took me two weeks to even put paint on the canvas. Luckily, I had some understanding of the business side and contracts. In my commission contracts I demanded artistic license and a long time to complete it. Even with all of that I was terrified. Why did I continue to do it you ask? Because I have always had the belief that I can do anything anyone else can do. I just have to learn how.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?

Im an abstract painter who dabbles in figurative and mixed Media. Im known for what I call my Triangle People.
Im most proud that I have come so far since the first time my work was shown to the public 4 years ago. Im proud that my work has won awards, have been published, has been made into murals and was chosen to be placed on several store brand products.
What sets me apart from others is I stay true to myself. I don’t give in to trends and I truly paint whatever I want at the moment. I realize there are many very talented artists and I wont always be chosen for the job. However, Im always so happy for whomever gets it. What is for me will never pass me by.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?

My Favorite books are: The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz The Gifts of imperfection by Brene Brown, Daring Greatly by Brene Brown,

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.georgettesgranddaughterart.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Goergettesgranddaughter
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Georgettesgranddaughter
• Youtube: @Georgettesgranddaughter9356

Image Credits

Boxx the Artist