Let’s get to know Australian artist, Dani Pratt (@texturedartbydani)! In this interview, we asked her stacks of questions about inspiration, mediums, creating and more. Find out more about Dani and texture art down below.
What would you say to a beginner artist who might be a little scared to try creating?
Just have a go. It might take some time to find the tools and techniques you’re comfortable with, but you won’t know unless you try. I try to remember to look at what I think are ‘imperfections’ in my work and see them as unique aspects.
What would your dream creative space look like?
Any place where I can spread out my tools and work and not be interrupted. I use my clothes drying rack to dry my work so access to that at any time without having to clear the washing would be lovely.
What’s something that you’re proud of, that you don’t often get to talk about?
The journey I went through to create textured petals. It took me a month of trying it every day before I finally felt confident with them. I started doing them thinking that it would take no time to make them look amazing, but I had to work hard at it and I’m very proud of the progress.
What art mediums are your faves?
I love working with beautiful, thick, colourful acrylic paint. I do a lot of journaling, so I have a few pens that I love using.
What or who are your biggest creative inspirations?
Malta and Italy inspire me. I love travelling there and find that the colours, architecture, patterns and nature motivate me to get creative.
How did you discover your inner artist? Was it a gradual process or a surprise discovery?
I have always loved art since I was a child. I remember having a case filled with pens, pencils and paint which I adored. I studied history throughout school and university and loved studying artwork throughout different periods of history. I have tried many different types of art and enjoy painting, embroidery and writing letters and postcards. No matter what I do or what I have seen, no two pieces are the same.
How do you tackle art block?
I block out some time in my week for it. As a busy mum, sometimes it doesn’t happen, but I always try my best to fit it in. I also take some time to look at what inspires me, including pictures of Malta and Italy.
Do you have a fave Mont Marte product? We love seeing what you make with them!
I love using the Mont Marte palette knives alongside the Dimension Acrylic Paint. The paint is thick and retains its colour beautifully when mixed with other mediums. I love that Mont Marte products are affordable and of high quality.
What’s a Friday night look like for you? Takeout, night out, games, early night… what’s the best end to the week?
We usually have leftovers, chat about our day over dinner, play games with the children, then bathtime and a few books and then we are all ready for bed.
Where does your mind drift to when you paint?
I try to focus just on the work in front of me. As a busy mum, I usually have so many things on my mind all the time so focusing on one thing is a nice change.
Dani has taught us to just have a go at creating and see imperfections as artistic quirks! We love this attitude and can’t wait to work on being kind to our inner artist.
Learn more about @texturedartbydani by checking out our gallery, where her art journey is featured! Stock up on texture art supplies by diving into Dimension Acrylics, Modelling Paste, and Palette Knives. If you feel ready to dive into dimensional creating, #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook. We’d love to see what you make!
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