Enjoy the delightful portfolio of artist Daniel Nelson, who transforms joy into visual form. Find more of his artwork on his website.
“When the Music Starts” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 24″
Throughout my life I would start and stop painting, feeling the desire but then doubting my ability. It wasn’t until my late 50’s that my desire outweighed my doubts.
“Beach Ball” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 24″
I started with abstracts and sunsets, learning how to use color and techniques, then building my confidence and painting with more direction. Painting with my own voice and not being held back by what I imagined the world would think of my art. That gave me the ability to experiment and grow as an artist, to develop my own style.
“Pop Up Party” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 48″
I grew up in Chicago working as a graphic designer. Then I spent a year living in Palm Springs, where I fell in love with the quirky people and the Mid-Century Architecture. I started to incorporate them in my painting.
“Playing Frisbee” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 24″
I also spent time developing my sense of me, what I feel and what I believe in. That discovery of self led me to a happiness and inner peace that translated to a joy of being which also made its way into my art.
“Who Let the Birds Out” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 48″
My paintings are done with acrylics on canvas. I’m too impatient to work with oils. I work from home and enjoy having everything right there so I can pick up my brushes and start painting whenever I feel the urge.
“Pet Parade” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 48″
Usually, my cats sit on the table next to me watching and sometimes crawling into my lap to help. When I have the day off from the office, I’m at my easel within 15 minutes of waking up, ready to paint. I will be there until evening.
“Surfs Up” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 24″
I paint stories and moments in time using color and humor. My inspiration comes from people, how they move and how they interact with the world around them. How simple things can bring a smile.
“Smile” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 24″
I paint the world inside of me. That world is happy, fun, joyful, integrated and includes what brings most people joy—their pets.
Artist Daniel Nelson in studio
My hope is when someone sees my paintings it triggers their imagination and they come up with a story about what they see. If I made you smile, then my paintings are a success.
Daniel Nelson invites you to follow him on Instagram.