Artist Statement

DeAnn McDaniel

I was raised in Oklahoma, a member of the Cherokee Nation, and have been drawn to making art since I was a child in Muskogee, OK. Art was my way of journaling events in my life, as others might keep a written journal. It has always been personal and deeply felt. Every drawing or painting contains a goodly portion of my soul, and is an expression of love, be it love for an idea, a place, a person, a history or a heart-felt memory. These are the reasons I paint and will continue to do so as long as I am able. My media of choice are colored pencils, watercolors, acrylics and alcohol inks.

I fell in love with the expansive landscapes and rock formations in Colorado, Utah and Arizona and lived for 20 years in Ridgway, Colorado. During my time in Colorado, I was president of the Ouray County Arts Association for 10 years, and was the director of the annual show, The Artists Alpine Holiday, for 15 years. In 2017 I felt it was time to return to my roots, and moved back to Muskogee, OK. I’ve become active in the Muskogee Arts Guild, and have spent time embracing my Cherokee heritage and wish to expand on that through art.

DeAnn McDaniel