Portraiture Research : Diana O'Brien, Muralist & Illustrator.

Portraiture Research : Diana O'Brien

​https://dianaobrienart.com/

​  We'd like to introduce you to Diana Brian, an accomplished mural artist and illustrator whose creativity extends into the realm of children's book illustration. A dedicated full-time designer, Diana weaves stories with her brush strokes to bring joy and wonder to children and to us all.

  Throughout her artistic journey, I had the privilege of exploring Diana's world through personal interviews conducted as part of portraiture research for my Master's seminar. In this intimate conversation, the true nature of Diana's passion unfolded, revealing not only her artistic prowess but also the unwavering dedication and seriousness she brings to her paintings.

  Diana's art is more than just visual illustrations. This is a work of her incredible imagination for storytelling. Her illustrations in children's books serve as a window into fantastical landscapes, instilling a sense of curiosity and magic in the minds of her audiences.

https://dianaobrienart.com/illustration

  ​What sets Diana apart is not only her technical ability, but the attitude she brings to her art. Through her conversation, I gained insight into her creative process and discovered the meticulous care she takes in creating each of her pieces. Diana's approach is a blend of dedication and inspiration, a balance between discipline and the boundless realm of imagination.

  Diana's journey also serves as a guide, as her mentor's advice inscribed in her murals. Her dedication to the art form is a beacon for those looking to embark on their creative journey. Diana's story reminds us that art is not just a profession but a way of life, requiring a delicate balance between the canvas and the complexities of everyday life.

https://dianaobrienart.com/murals

  ​As we explore  Diana Brien's artistic narrative, we hope it will inspire and advise those who, like her, wish to bring the color of creativity into their lives. In Diana's statement, we discover that art is a visual pleasure for the eyes and a repository of wisdom. It is the embodiment of our passion, our devotion, and the profound magic woven into the fabric of our being.

 The blow questions are about what we would like to ask teachers and artists/performers to learn more about topics and networks in the field based on visual models and burning questions/passions about the arts.
​

 I think it's important to use my art skills for good purposes. I try to convey hope and uplifting messages in my work. 

                       by Diana O'Brien

---

1.  Please briefly describe your background as an artist.

  I began as a junior graphic designer for Seamans and Levitz Furniture in 2000, and spent about a decade at Motorola as a senior graphic designer. I worked at various other companies doing marketing and graphic design. Currently I am working full time as a designer for a company that is launching a new hotel, and also produces a line of tech devices. 
​
  In the middle of all of that, my dad passed away. After that, I began volunteering with Splashes of Hope. I no longer paint with them - but the years I spent painting large scale murals around the country were transformative for me. I loved uplifting the patients with art.


2.  What kind of training did you receive, and how did you go about doing what you do?

  I went to FIT 1997-99 and have an associates degree in advertising design. I finished a bachelor's degree at SUNY Farmingdale in Visual Communications. I am about to finish a MFA in Illustration at FIT this coming spring. I found that saying yes to every relevant opportunity presented to me has helped open doors along the way. Some doors have remained closed, but I consider that an important part of navigating my path.


3.  What made you start making art? Could you let me know if you are satisfied with your choice at the time?

  I loved to draw as a child. I wanted to make greeting cards and I wanted to make children's books, but I chose graphic design to have a financially secure path. Sometimes I wonder what my career in illustration would have been like if I had the courage back then to take that direction. I do not regret anything though, and I am grateful for the ability to provide for myself and my family. 


4.  How has your work and life evolved as a mother and artist?

  I have had to learn how to create in short amounts of time instead of hours at a stretch. This is difficult. But my children are my greatest blessing and I marvel at the creativity they display. It's really hard to work and find time to create art. I am taking classes in the city to finish my MFA. My employer is tolerant of this endeavor. My family is very supportive of what I am trying to do.
​

5.   How many hours a day do you dedicate to your art? How do I secure it?

  I work from 8:30-5:30pm, home at 6pm, I devote 6-8:30pm completely to my kids who are ages 6 and 3. After that, I can create art. Right now I am working on a children's book for my thesis.


6.   What message do you convey through your work? What prompted you to use that medium?

  I think it's important to use my art skills for good purposes. I try to convey hope and uplifting messages in my work. 


7.  What more must you learn to develop your resume and skills?

  I will never stop learning. I want to learn more about teaching. I also want to learn about creating nonprofit organizations. Above all, I want to continually improve my drawing skills. Figure drawing is the best for that. 


8.  What do you want to consider more important when teaching students?

  Connection to the student - because without that, they might not be engaged. Humility also. If I don't know an answer, I will say it, but then go find the answer.


9. Which areas of art would you emphasize to your students? How would you respond if a student is not interested in the field you teach?

  I am interested in art history and the artistic design process. I like to learn about where ideas come from. I think it's important to teach students to open their imaginations, and the extreme importance of guarding carefully what you put into your mind. Media, etc. What we take in has a lot of influence over how. what, why we create.
​

10. Please tell us about your educational philosophy.

  I don't have a formal answer to this question. I know that with my kids, as my mom did with me, I like to provide them with all the tools to create, and I sit back and watch them go. I provide instruction and guidance when they get stuck or want it.

https://dianaobrienart.com/illustration

https://dianaobrienart.com/illustration