Artist Profile: Danielle Mielke
Born and raised in Madison, Danielle Mielke is a senior attending UW-Milwaukee. Majoring in Art Education, she continues to work as a freelance artist in her spare time. Much of her artistry seeks to understand others through portraiture. In depicting herself, she hopes to come to terms with the complex emotions that define her.
1) What are you manifesting in terms of creative goals for this year?
A big goal/manifestation I have this year is consistency and discipline. I've always struggled with burnout and would often put my artwork on hold for months at a time. This year, I'm working to create a more rigorous routine to combat my lack of productivity.
2) Who (or what) has most influenced your artistic process thus far?
I constantly find myself inspired by local, talented artists. Shiloah Coley and Terrance Adeyanju are great examples of young, inspiring black artists that I look up to. In my recent works, I feel heavily influenced by Frida Kahlo's surrealist self-portraits. Her ability to translate these raw, gut-wrenching experiences into works of art is astounding. Jennifer Packer is another great source. Their use of color is truly remarkable; their depiction of intimacy/blackness is breathtaking.
3) Describe your fave type of art to create (or medium to work with). Does it differ from your fave type of art to be a consumer of?
Recently, I've found new inspiration in digital art. Programs like ProCreate have made it possible for me to experiment with a multitude of mediums and brush modes at the touch of a button! I've enjoyed being able to explore new emotions/mental states through the digital medium. I have always been a lover of digital art and frequently collect prints from flea markets.
4) Any exhibitions, concerts, books, spoken word events and/or films you're hoping to check out this winter?
I'm excited to dive into this new workbook titled “The Artist's Way” by Julia Cameron. It's a self-help book that aims to aid artists and creatives in their craft. I hope it'll help me come to terms with some of the blocks and questions that I have yet to push through. Another artist that I have admired is the rapper Smino. He's touring his recent album Luv 4 Rent so I'm extremely excited to see him in concert this March.
