Artist Profile: Amanda Dolan

Plastic Fantastic

Artist: Amanda Dolan
Location: NYC!

Website:
Amanda Dolan

Joan Crawford

How do you describe your work, Amanda?
Eclectic and multi layered. Its poppy and serious at the same time. I like to challenge dualities in my work.

What is your creative process like?
I usually have a theme or idea in my head first, but I like to just start working-I never do much pre- planning or sketching. I like my art to simply come out of me organically.

I always paint to music! I need some up-beat Rock’n’Roll to get me goin!

Usually, I make a big mess on the floor – spreading out all my paints and brushes, pieces of paper with random sayings on it, ripped up handmade papers, glitter, wax, you name it – it’s strewn across the floor! That way I can just reach for it and not interrupt my thoughts.

I paint for a few hours at a time and then take a days break to reflect and make any minor changes to the piece.

Courtney Love

What kind of training did you have which helped you achieve your current level of artistry?
Painting has always been in my bones, so apart from my formal training I got in High School and College, I’ve always carried in me the advice that my Mentor Julie Nixon (my high school art teacher) has given to me- which is- Trust your gut, RELAX!, and does the piece need anymore red, green or blue!?

Is there a tool or material that you can’t imagine living without?
Acrylic Gloss Medium. It’s shiny and also acts like an adhesive.

Marie Antoinette

What inspires you to create?
The culture is so vibrant here in New York. Everything is so alive and neon-like. I flourish when I am surrounded by inspiration and chaos-and thats what NYC is! It’s art, it’s love, it’s joy, it’s sorrow, it’s everything! I find inspiration in day to day things. Stuff like going to see a local band play, how the sidewalk glitters in the sun when I get my morning coffee; those type of things. From hot pink fingernails to a new pair of stilettos my influences vary day to day.

What inspires you to keep going when the work gets frustrating or tough?
I remind myself that this is what I love to do – and it comes straight from my soul, so I simply take a break and trust my initial instinct.

Typical

What is your best piece of advice for those who would like to rise in their level of artistry?
Always try to show wherever, don’t turn down any opportunity no matter how small it seems – it will lead you to the next step!

Never take yourself too seriously! Try to relax and enjoy what you’re doing. Have some fun and smile!

And never, ever doubt yourself…what comes from the heart should always be trusted.

Big Pink

What takes up the majority of your time besides your art?
Just everyday life tasks! Stuff like, taking care of my French Bulldog Pearl! She is a total Princess. I take her for long walks every day so she can watch squirrels. Its also very relaxing and mind clearing for me!

I also really enjoy cooking. It helps me stay creative and adventurous, and makes me feel productive and proud when I serve a new meal!

And of course, being in love! My boyfriend is a very talented drummer and he’s always playing gigs or preforming at different Rock’n’Roll events. So, being a supportive girlfriend is a wonderful and fulfilling way to take up my time as well!

What’s your favorite comfort food?
Anything with cheese! Pasta, Pizza, you name it!-But only once in a while, of course!