Artist Danny Rose may not be bound for Broadway, but he lives for his art
MARK STOKES | Illustrator
mark@markdrawsfunny.com
Name and age: Danny Rose, 27.
Spotted at: Cityplace
Occupation: Painter
Born in Charleston, S.C., Danny spent his formative years “on the edge of the world,” as he says — in Blair and Altus, Okla. The only son (with four sisters) of industrious parents, Danny expressed an early interest in art. At 17, he was accepted at the Dallas Art Institute where he earned a bachelor’s degree in fine art.
After a few years working odd jobs, Danny found a position teaching art and design in South Asia. He visited several different countries, including Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia, and learned to speak Indonesian. He returned to the U.S. one year ago, and settled here in Dallas.
About coming out. “I’m always coming out in a continual discovery of myself,” he says. “I’m a little bit strange. I’m happy to be strange.” He admits he wants to become more involved and be more connected to queer culture and the LGBTQ community. “I’m a maker/artist. I’m doing what’s best for me. You should, too.”
Travel helps. And meditation, which he does every day. It helps him calm his mind, alleviate anxiety and keep track of his thoughts. “My art is a form of meditation. It keeps me from going to a dark place.”
Making art: The landscapes and colors of Indonesia have inspired some of his work. He is represented by Galleri Urbane Dallas + Marfa. The focus of his recent work is the exploration of different Inner and Outer Landscapes. Danny’s first solo exhibition, titled The Sun Shines Blue, opened at Galleri Urbane in June.
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition August 12, 2016.