Adore April 2022

D ana, a Louisiana native, earned her BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art. She is a painter, sculptor, and scenic artist working in the Mardi Gras float-building and film industries. Her portfolio includes everything from carnival floats to detailed murals to set construction and large scale sculptures for episodic television and major motion pictures. In addition, she offers custom carnival flowers and costumes for private collectors and enthusiasts through her studio, Mardi Gras Customs. Dana is passionate about sharing a true appreciation of the carnival arts here in New Orleans and beyond. Dana Beuhler GENTILLY Artist danabeuhler.com

FAVORITE PART ABOUT LIVING IN NEW ORLEANS? There's always something happening inNewOrleans—festivals, shows, exhibits, and parades. But beyond just celebrating, our many events give us the opportunity to connect with other people in our community. New Orleanians are famously good at stepping up and helping each other in times of crisis, and I believe we're able to do so in part because we've built solid connections with each other through the act of celebrating our culture. FAVORITE QUOTE? "Love yourself. Then forget it. Then, love the world." Mary Oliver

WHY NEW ORLEANS? New Orleans possesses a creative spirit that is unparalleled, and there's no better example of that than the way we celebrate Mardi Gras. It's one huge, multi-faceted creative ritual, and the joy is palpable. As an artist, there's so much to feel inspired by. WHAT DO YOU DO TO NURTURE CREATIVITY? I try to start every day with coffee and 10 minutes of quiet. It may not sound like much, but great ideas can happen in those precious minutes before my kids wake up and the work day begins. BIGGEST INSPIRATION IN YOUR WORK? As a visual artist working in the Mardi Gras industry, I acknowledge that I'm a very small part of an enormous tableau. I'm constantly in awe of the artistic collaboration of the way that the floats, costumes, bands, dance troops, and spectators all converge in one massive celebration. WHAT IS INSPIRING YOU RIGHT NOW? In the post-Mardi Gras months, I gather inspiration from the flowers I see in bloom on my walks throughout the city. It's a period of rest and reflection for me; I do most of my flower designs and templates in the spring. WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR TAKING CREATIVE RISKS? Recognize that "failure" is a part of the creative process. The beauty of new, risky projects is what you learn, even if things don't pan out the way you envisioned.

ADORE • APRIL 2022

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