Today we’d like to introduce you to Deanna Hunter.
Hi Deanna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Being creative has always been a part of who I am. When it came to bringing my ideas to life, I was confident the talent was in me but often just played around with it for fun. As my life began to develop in different ways, my thoughts and emotions needed somewhere to go. Painting was no longer just a hobby but it became my therapy. I’ve always had a passion for the arts but this time it was different. I was able to look inside myself, feel how I feel, and develop a true passion for expressionism. The movement thought out the paintings fueled my spirit to keep moving forward as the stillness brought inner peace. Not only did creating become my “way of escape,” but it was also a sense of wholeness and feeling complete. It seemed like the only way I can truly express myself without having to make sense. I could articulate my feelings without saying a word. I let the art speak for me and let the viewer interpret the meaning. Allowing myself to feel free and let it be was liberating for me. I started to become more serious about my art coming to Texas in 2018. I was able to sit still and create through all of my self-reflection and painting became an all the time thing for me. Coming into 2020-2021, circumstances allowed me the opportunity to create full-time and really put myself and my art out there!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road but life wouldn’t be its interesting self without its twists and turns. Moving from Virginia to Texas was an internal struggle for me. Though it was in my best interest, leaving what I was used to and pushing myself out of my comfort zone has been a journey. I believe this process translated into my art well, however, I often struggle with the thought of “what’s next?” It’s a battle within myself trying to control my future and everything that happens next, knowing that’s not how things work exactly. The pressure of success and consistency can be a bit overwhelming. In some moments I feel like I’m not creating enough which is why remind myself to step back and recharge as an artist. I just take it day by day and go wherever my creativity takes me, no matter the obstacles.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a painter, photographer, designer and so much more that I do not limit myself. I’m known for portrait photography and vivid paintings. I’d say I specialize in art that captures your attention, whether it’s through a portrait, a painting or down to the clothes I’m wearing. Showcasing my work has been one of my proudest moments. I’ve always had a vision of having my own art show and was fortunate to do so back home in Virginia. Now, when it comes down to my signature style, I tend to incorporate faces and facial features in each of my work. It’s usually nothing too realistic, just creative enough to make you do a double take. There’s something about different features that I love. It’s just one of those things that you see everyday whether it’s you or someone else and it’s always unique.
What were you like growing up?
I’d say I was definitely an outgoing kind of kid. I grew up in a big family but still had plenty of space to be my genuine self. My personality was a mixture between playful and energetic but also very observant with time to myself. I always had a creative interest. There were times I’d draw pictures for family, no matter what it looked like and would even write a small note from the heart. Other times I was outside, running around and enjoying life as it was. As long as I was having fun, that’s the only thing that mattered.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_screamsimba/
https://www.instagram.com/scream.eyescene - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scream.eyescene
Image Credits
Photographs by EYESCENE
