We are thrilled to share our interview with another Repaint History Call For Art Fund recipient Desireé Vaniecia

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Desireé Vaniecia, I was born and raised in Dallas, TX, and I currently work from Dallas as an artist and educator. I have a little family, my husband, son, and two dogs. I started painting about 5 to 6 years ago, and I didn't know what I wanted to say and do. I just knew that I wanted my son to be proud of what I created.

 

Image courtesy of the artist, photo by Shauna Benoit 

Tell us about an encounter with art that has shaped your practice.

My undergrad degree is in graphic design; when working as a designer, you have to do sketches and revisions all the time. That has a significant impact on my art practice. I am always sketching and jotting down ideas.

Image courtesy of the artist, photo by Shauna Benoit 

Which artists inspire your work?

The prominent artists that have inspired my work are Kara Walker and Elizabeth Catlett. But my friends have inspired my artwork; being around them has upped my game and allowed me to learn more about being a working artist.

Image courtesy of the artist 

 

What challenges have you faced throughout your career as an artist, and what advice would you give to artists beginning their career?

One big challenge that I have faced in my career is being too busy. I am a mother, wife, artist, educator, and so much more. I had to learn how to say and no and allow myself time to breathe. Another challenge I faced was being self-critical about my work –  I would always doubt myself, so I would tell anybody beginning in their career is that they have to be the biggest fan of their work and love every aspect of their process. You cannot achieve growth without failing, and that there is beauty and development in failure also.

Image courtesy of the artist, photo by Shauna Benoit 

How has your practice been affected by the turbulence and uncertainty of the past year? Has your work or the way you approach it changed at all? 

I don't think my practice has been affected much by the uncertainty of the past year. I was already approaching the idea of taking my time when created works and realizing that I don't always have a finished piece. If the past year did anything, it just solidified that idea in my mind.

Image courtesy of the artist 

What has your experience been in terms of mentorship and a sense of community in the art world, particularly among women artists?

My experience has been great. I always say give out energy that you want to receive. I am still open to helping artists and fostering a community. This past year, I have leaned on artists, curators, and educators more, but I am always open to sharing the information I have learned. It's still fun to watch others succeed, and if I can help, it is a bonus to being an artist.

Image courtesy of the artist 

How will the Repaint History fund support your career?

The fund will support my career by helping with a new project that I want to complete where I make wood cut out panels of my figures. I love experimenting, so this fund will allow me to push what my art can be in 2021.

Image courtesy of the artist 

 

Are there any new projects you are currently working on?

I am currently working on a few giant murals for the Spring and a group show that I will be having in Dallas in May. I am also completing a project that I had planned with the City of Dallas to create an art lesson and project kit for local public schools. I hope to install works to celebrate Juneteenth and finish writing and illustrating a children's book. I know it's a lot, but I am excited for the year.

Image courtesy of the artist