Today we’d like to introduce you to Dana Manly.
Hi Dana, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I decided to become a full-time artist about 8 years ago after pursuing and practicing 2 other careers. I received a Master’s in Kinesiology and a Master’s in Counseling, practiced both for many years and shifted my focus to building a successful art business in the past 3- 5 years. I came from a family of “creatives” and eventually attended College to study Fine Arts. After years of working as an Exercise Physiologist and starting as a counselor, my creative spirit cried out to be heard. I started painting and sculpting on canvas. I have always wanted to create art that people can connect with because it is meaningful to them. Symbolism is at the heart of all of my creations. My work articulates what can’t be captured in words to myself and others. My work is also deeply rooted in Spirituality. Redbirds comfort those who have lost loved ones: Selenite in my butterflies enhances one’s connection to the Divine, clearing negative energy. Difficult times in life are especially beneficial in my creations as I use canvas, clay, metal, fabric, and other materials to externalize what needs to be expressed. This brings me to how I begin each day of creativity: I light a candle and ask for assistance to be a humble channel for the Divine so that what needs to be brought into this world is expressed. My job is to show up, pause to pray, open myself as a conduit to the Divine, and get to work.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road, primarily because of my reluctance to devote myself entirely to being a full-time artist. It took a leap of faith and the courage to work on the inner obstacles, eventually convincing me that being an artist is my true calling. I now cannot wait to get into my studio to work. COVID was prime in my business; when everything shut down, I had to think of a way to continue to create and have it supported as a business. I started selling custom lines to Boutiques and Interior Designers, and that is when my business flourished.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Dana Manly Art LLC?
As an Artist, the journey of owning, managing, and expanding what I love into a successful business has been transformational. I have learned how to take my artwork, appreciate its intrinsic value, and consider how to present it to the world so that the art and the process remain authentic. It has truly become possible to both create art and a viable business. In essence, I can say that I’ve known how to “create” most of my life, but now I’ve learned how to run a business, and that is an art in itself. I pay as much attention to the business aspect as the colors I paint with. Today, there is no separation from creating a painting, a table, a lamp, or a sculpture to building the structure that will support the creations and the business together.
Any big plans?
My vision for the future is to continue to grow and have my work placed nationally and internationally. I have staff that currently helps me with finishing touches, etc., and I want to continue to grow in a manner that gives life to the people who are part of my team, clients, and patrons who appreciate and purchase my work. I am working hard to develop a system that allows me to sustain a level of creativity that satisfies my desire to express myself and share what I have received with those who contribute to my success.
Pricing:
- My smaller pieces range from $65-180
- My medium and large from $350 -$8500
Contact Info:
- Website: www.danamanly.com
- Instagram: @danamanlyart
Image Credits
Rhonda Hebert Photography
