Meet Dana McMillan

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR WORK RIGHT NOW?

The shapes and colors on the beach whether it’s umbrellas, surf boards, or even towels. It’s all so bright and fun.

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN A PIECE IS FINISHED?

I look at a painting then come back to it numerous times until I know it’s finished.

IN ONLY A FEW WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE?

Impressionism. You know roughly what the subject is, but it’s loose and open.

DID ANYTHING SHIFT OR SURPRISE YOU WHILE CREATING THIS COLLECTION?

Living and loving the coast totally influences my work. The sounds and smells evoke such strong feelings that I am driven to put them down on canvas. The joy it provides not only our family but others on the beach and on the water is hard to explain.

WHO ARE SOME ARTISTS (PAST OR PRESENT) WHO INFLUENCE OR INSPIRE YOU?

John Singer Sargent’s use of color in his marine paintings inspire me.

WHAT MATERIALS OR TECHNIQUES DO YOU MOST ENJOY USING, AND WHY?

I love my pallet knives! The large ones are so much fun to use.

STUDIO SOUNDTRACK: SILENCE, MUSIC, OR PODCASTS?

Music and podcasts are always ongoing in the studio. A good sermon can also be heard loud and often.

COFFEE OR TEA WHILE YOU WORK?

Ice tea is my drink of choice!

FINISH THIS SENTENCE: “ART IS…”

joy sometimes relaxing and other times happy."