Today we’d like to introduce you to Dawn Howell
Hi dawn, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Dawn Howell is a contemporary artist based in Austin, Texas, with a passion for creating colorful and ethereal acrylic paintings. With a diverse background that spans over 20 years, Dawn has explored many artistic mediums, including photography, graphic design, ceramics, and metalwork, before settling on acrylics as the primary medium. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising, along with minors in French and Business Administration, Dawn has always balanced creativity with a strong entrepreneurial spirit. In 2024, Dawn launched an Etsy shop, offering original paintings and prints, and began participating in artisan markets. February 2025 marks an exciting milestone—Dawn’s debut gallery exhibition at The Hive Gallery in Bee Caves, where two large, whimsical works will be showcased as part of the “Women in Visual Art” exhibit.
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 road to where I am today has certainly had its challenges, but I couldn’t be more grateful for the journey. In the beginning, juggling a small business while raising three young boys was incredibly tough. Finding balance was a challenge, but over time, I’ve managed to transition into my role as both a businesswoman and an artist. Another major hurdle came when I faced health issues that led to neck surgery, leaving me with six screws in my neck and constant pain. Despite these physical struggles, I’ve continued to push forward, motivated by my dreams and a desire to show my children that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. Every obstacle has shaped me into the artist and person I am today, and I wouldn’t trade the lessons learned for anything.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in creating whimsical, dreamy, and colorful acrylic paintings that are inspired by the natural world. My work is heavily influenced by the vibrant colors found in nature—like the soft hues of a sunset, the brilliance of a rainbow, and the ethereal beauty of cotton candy clouds. I’m most known for my whimsical botanical and floral landscape scenes that feel both fairy-like and ethereal. Each piece invites the viewer to escape into a world that’s both magical and grounded in the beauty of the natural world. What sets me apart is my ability to capture that sense of wonder and serenity, creating artwork that not only reflects the world around us but also evokes a sense of peace and joy. I’m most proud of how my work allows others to experience a sense of magic and escape, especially as I’ve worked hard to build a style that’s uniquely mine.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
A surprising fact about my journey is that I had to undergo neck surgery due to a many things including cervical spinal stenosis and a pinched nerve, which left my dominant arm completely numb. For a while, I couldn’t paint at all, and that was a difficult time for me creatively, mentally, and emotionally. But after the surgery, I regained feeling in my arm, and it felt like a fresh start. When I could finally paint again, I dove in headfirst and haven’t looked back. The experience not only reconnected me to my passion but also gave me a deeper appreciation for the act of creating. It was a turning point that reminded me to never take my art or my ability to create for granted.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dawnhowellart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dawn_howell_art/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063958366137
- Other: https://dawnhowellart.etsy.com
