"Please, Don't Touch My Soul With Dirty Hands" is a captivating piece that measures 30x30 cm, crafted as a mixed media on canvas. This artwork commands attention through its bold, stylized portrait that dominates the canvas. The facial features are intentionally exaggerated, delivering a dramatic effect that draws the viewer into a vivid explosion of color and emotion. The eyes stand out prominently, highlighted by vibrant blue and pink accents, and are encased within thick black and purple outlines that amplify their intensity. Similarly, the lips are painted a bright red, further accentuated with shades of purple, enhancing the portrait's expressive nature. The composition of the artwork is dynamic and layered, featuring an arrow that cuts across the face diagonally, adding a sense of movement and intrigue. Alongside these elements, various black scribbles and doodles populate the canvas, imbuing it with an energetic and chaotic flair. The inclusion of expressive text is a key component of this piece; the right side prominently features the poignant message, "Please, don't touch my soul with dirty hands." This phrase not only anchors the visual chaos but also invites introspection and interpretation, blending seamlessly with the aesthetic. Combining elements of pop art and street art, the artwork effectively merges expressive text with striking imagery. It offers a visually and emotionally engaging experience, encouraging the viewer to confront themes of vulnerability and self-preservation. This work stands as a powerful visual statement, using its vibrant palette and layered motifs to challenge and captivate. Through its unique process and thoughtful execution, the artwork transcends mere visual appeal to communicate a deeply personal message.

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.