The artwork, titled "I Am," is an abstract painting that commands attention with its vibrant and chaotic composition. Measuring 18x24 inches, the piece is rendered in mixed media on fine art paper, showcasing an energetic interplay of bold colors such as reds, blues, greens, and yellows. These vivid hues are punctuated by black and white elements, creating a striking contrast that draws the viewer's eye across the entire artwork. One of the most captivating aspects of the piece is the fluidity of its lines and shapes. Prominent, dynamic lines crisscross the surface, generating a palpable sense of movement and energy. These lines are complemented by a variety of geometric shapes, including circles and rectangles, that intersect and overlap throughout the composition. The right side of the painting features dripping orange paint, contributing a dramatic and dynamic element that adds to the overall vibrancy of the artwork. Further enhancing the chaotic and unrestrained feel are spontaneous squiggles and scribbles, which imbue the piece with a raw and expressive quality. The interplay of these varied elements results in an artwork that evokes a sense of spontaneity and vibrancy, capturing the viewer's imagination with its dynamic arrangement and bold use of color. An intriguing detail within this composition is the accidental inclusion of the words “I Am,” scribbled into the painting. This unintentional feature adds a layer of mystery and personal connection, making the piece not just a visual spectacle, but also a textual one, inviting viewers to ponder its meaning and the creative process behind it.

Dani Wilson

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Dani Wilson, an inspiring voice in the world of abstract art, was born in 1969 in Cleveland, Ohio, and spent her formative years oscillating between Cleveland and Baltimore. The frequent relocations and a tremendously impactful childhood event-witnessing the tragic death of her father at the age of twelve— left an indelible mark on her life. Diagnosed with depression and PTSD at thirteen, Dani navigated her difficult teenage years with courage and resilience. Though she dabbled in art throughout her life, it wasn't until 2016 that Wilson experienced a profound artistic awakening. That transformative moment came courtesy of her daughter, Maddie, who introduced her to Priscilla Batzell on YouTube. Dani instantly fell back in love with abstract art and found herself immersed in its vibrant and emotive world. With sobriety providing newfound clarity, Dani dedicated herself entirely to art, breathing life into every canvas. Wilson's journey is remarkable in its self-taught nature. Without any formal artistic connections in her family or academic training, she relied solely on her intrinsic passion and relentless study of the craft. Dani's past included over two decades battling addiction to drugs and alcohol, a period during which she painted only sporadically. However, with over seven years of sobriety under her belt, she now lives and breathes art, painting full-time in her Baltimore studio. Her work bears the hallmark of her experiences with depression and PTSD, translating these complex emotions into vivid, energetic colors. Dani's creative process begins with an underpainting, a foundational layer that imparts depth and contrast to her work. She then builds upon this with a bright and dynamic color palette, meticulously crafting each piece. Her technique is a quilt of influences from various artists, gleaned through exhaustive online research, yet her distinctive use of color and form sets her apart. Dani's inspiration draws heavily from two art figures: Jackson Pollock and Priscilla Batzell. Her ongoing quest for artistic expression finds her active in Highlandtown's First Friday art walk, where she engages with a vibrant and supportive community. Currently, her work, including her unique hand-painted wearable art jewelry, is showcased at the 3402 Gallery on Gough Street in Highlandtown. Recognition has followed her dedication. Dani has garnered several awards and is going to be featured in an interview with Voyage Baltimore Magazine at the end of the Summer. Her art has been spotlighted in a two-month solo show in July of 2022, earning admiration from viewers who often find themselves mesmerized by her colorful creations. Her dream is to secure a lasting place in the art world, a goal she strives for with unwavering determination. Dani Wilson's art is a reflection of her journey— a narrative colored by struggle, resilience, and ultimately, redemption. With each piece, she not only explores the depths of abstract art but also invites viewers into a world where every hue and shape has a story to tell. Her commitment and unique vision underscore the vital role art plays in society, proving that it is not only a form of expression but also a beacon of hope and transformation.