For our first interview of the 2022 Delaware Fun-A-Day, we talk to artist Deanna Daly about her past Delaware Fun-A-Day experiences, her art practice, and how DEFAD has had an unexpected impact on her decor. Thanks, Deanna!
Be sure to check out our Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for updates on the progress of our interviewees! And make sure you check your email (and this site) for important information on drop off, the event, and art pick up!
We like to know how people are connected to Delaware Fun a Day - are you a resident, born and raised? What opportunities have you found being in the exhibit?
I was born in Milford and raised in Newark. I've met some incredible artists and educators since doing DEFAD. I love getting artist's business cards and buying from them during the holiday season <3
This is going to be your SIXTH year participating! Can you describe your favorite past Fun-A-Day project?
I've enjoyed every year so far but my favorite was my "Japanese Inspired" Fun-A-Day which later inspired my interior design endeavors after I bought a house. My fun-a-day project is now proudly displayed in our stairwell.
You are both an artist and an art educator, are there any projects or activities have you had students do during your years of being an educator that have inspired you?
My students inspire me all the time! More often than not, I keep my art lessons open-ended so students can express themselves more freely. They keep me on my toes and make me think outside the box, especially using mixed media!
Please describe your 2022 project "Collage-a-day".
I'm going back to my college days with this project. I graduated in 2013 and always look back at past artworks and think about how much I've grown as an artist since then. My project will be a mixture of traditional collage (cutting and gluing) and digital collage using the app procreate on my iPad. Whenever I feel inspired, I will often take photos or collect imagery from a location. Later, I alter and layer them in unexpected ways.
As a well-seasoned Delaware Fun-A-Day participant, what advice can you give our newcomers? Is there any piece of advice that you believe would be a top priority for rookies to take a hold of?
Just remember, we make a lot of "bad art" before making good art. If you want to stick to the goal of making a piece every day, set yourself a reminder or find another artist, that also signed up, to share with. Fun-A-Day should always feel fun and not a chore. It's okay if you create more than one piece in one sitting and don't create for multiple days! There is no pressure with DEFAD and that's why it's such an incredible opportunity for artists of all abilities.
Do you find yourself using DEFAD as a testing ground for new directions your professional work is going? Or do you use the month long challenge to produce more work that fits within your current cannon?
I use DEFAD as a kickstart for the rest of the year. I find that during the school year, I will only make art with and for my students instead of for pleasure and self-expression. DEFAD pushes me to create art every day and I often keep that momentum for months afterward.
Can you describe the meaning having an art practice has played in your life?
Art has always been a form of meditation for me. My stress, worries and problems fall away while I create. I believe art isn't created to express your identity, but to find it. The process of creating is often more important than the result.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I believe artists should also be activists. For any artist reading this, share your experiences with the world and express yourself freely. Art can change the world <3
Where can people see more of your work?
I post it all on my instagram! Username: @dea_daly