Interview
Danielle Jun
Danielle Jun creates in the style of multi dimensional abstract/realistic expressionism. Her exploration with painting began by using color therapy as a healing tool after her younger brother, Brandon, passed suddenly from a car accident. Painting served as a valuable instrument in helping heal the depths of grief, to then emerge as works of art. Over the last twenty years, her style has shifted for abstract to include more realism that emerges from her imagination. She is also a singer and songwriter with an album of original music. She had previously worked with a non-profit in Florida that taught yoga to people with Parkinson’s. Blessed are those who have the tools in place, to uncover the beauty in life's challenges.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I grew up in an artist’s studio. My stepfather was an illustrator from New York. During my childhood, I was constantly registering creative images into my subconscious. It was normal to be surrounded by large paintings in progress, and to be a witness to their evolution. In 1998, my younger brother, Brandon, passed suddenly from a car accident. I found it extremely rewarding to work through emotions that were unpleasant and filled with sadness, to then complete a painting that I found to be beautiful. The process proved to help me deal with the loss, to then begin to fill the space in my heart with happiness and accomplishment.”
What inspires you?
“There is a need to create. Without the process, life feels less fulfilled. During times of working on a new painting or writing a song to play on the guitar, there is most likely emotion behind the motivation. Feelings that rise to the surface, that need to be let go of through creating. A lot of what I do has always felt therapeutic. Working through emotions, expressing them in an compassionate and intelligent way. Releasing stagnation by creating something that I can be proud of.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“My work tends to be colorful. I have found that there are many therapeutic insights into working with color. I mainly paint because it challenges me in the most profound way, and helps me uncover my subconscious imagination. I usually do not have a preconceived notion of what the end result will be, and it's always something different that what I may 'plan' for. There is an excitement in the process, and an evolution in the paintings. They tend to pursue themes of healing, gratitude and self empowerment.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work is multi dimensional, abstract and a form of realistic expressionism.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Right now, I am inspired by the likes of Marc Chagall, Gustov Klimt and Paul Gauguin, Paul Cezanne, Claude Monet, Henri Matisse, Salvador Dali, Edgar Degas, Frida Kahlo, and contemporary artists Voka and Hessam Abrishami.”
“My work tends to be colorful. I have found that there are many therapeutic insights into working with color.”
What is your creative process like?
“I usually sit with a canvas for a moment before I start to apply color. I will get in touch with a feeling, and that usually leads me to the start of the unfolding. Some of my favorite pieces, I painted primarily in one direction. Towards completion, I've turned it upside down, and found that is my favorite way to view it. I never really know, which is exciting. Painting gives the gift of knowing nothing is ever wrong. There are very few things in life, where there is only acceptance and an open heart.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“I see myself as someone who has the unique opportunity to inspire others imagination. To be an example of working through very difficult emotions from a young age, to evolve into self empowerment. The world that we live in requires a more empathetic approach to all. If the tools are in place to help deal with difficulties, there will be a lot more healing and consideration for others along the way. I was very fortunate to be given the tools when I was young. I would hope that there are more art programs in place, especially for young people, to help process the big emotions that will enviably come up. Color therapy, and a desire to heal from grief, gave me my voice as an artist. Picking up a brush, a or a pen, or an instrument, is a powerful way to promote change and heal in a very profound and meaningful way. Finding those who inspire that creativity and whom you can relate, makes all the difference. An artist can do that.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I’ve showcased my work at Art Ovation, Sarasota Florida, September 2024; a solo show The Venice Gondolier, newspaper article, 2024 in Venice, Florida and The Port Charlotte Sun, newspaper article, 2024, Port Charlotte, Florida.”
Instagram: @daniellejunart
