Artist portraits from the Inaugural group show at Hashimoto Contemporary Los Angeles, September 2021

Embracing Wonder And Discovering The Soul of Artistic Exploration: An Interview with Artist Dan Lam

Art has always been a lens for Dan Lam to understand and interact with the world. From an early age, Dan found solace and fascination in the colors and textures that surrounded her, using art as a medium to translate her thoughts and emotions into tangible forms. What initially drew Dan to the world of art was its capacity to offer a space where imagination could flourish and ideas could take shape. This passion evolved over time into a profound exploration of materials and techniques, shaping Dan’s creative process into an intuitive and dynamic journey of discovery. We had the chance to speak with Dan about her eccentric art and its inspirations.

What initially drew you to the world of art?

Art has always allowed me to express and process the world around me. From a young age, I was fascinated by colors and textures and their endless possibilities. Creating and working with my hands allowed me to turn my imagination into something tangible. Over time, this passion grew, and I realized that art was a fundamental part of who I am and how I see the world.

Can you walk us through your creative process?

My creative process is highly intuitive and fluid. I usually start with a concept/idea/theme I want to explore. From there, I experiment with different materials, letting their properties guide the piece’s evolution. I often use foam, resin, and pigments to create vibrant, tactile sculptures. There’s a lot of improvisation involved; I allow the piece to develop organically, making adjustments and responding to how it takes shape. As I figure out a material, it’s then a process of refinement and trying many different iterations until I’ve honed in on what it can do. It’s a conversation between me and the materials, where spontaneity and control coexist.

What message or feeling do you hope to convey through your art?

I aim to evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity through my work. I want viewers to be intrigued by the beauty and strangeness of my sculptures, prompting them to question their perceptions and explore their emotional responses. My work often blurs the line between the familiar and the bizarre, creating a space where the unexpected can be captivating and thought-provoking. Ultimately, I want to inspire a deeper appreciation for the complexities and nuances of the world around us.

How has your style evolved over the years?

My style has evolved significantly as I’ve grown as an artist. Initially, my work focused more on traditional painting and drawing in college, but I gradually moved towards more experimental forms. Discovering new materials and techniques has been a major factor in this evolution. Over the years, I’ve become more confident in pushing boundaries and exploring the interplay between different textures and colors. This journey has led me to develop my visual language, which evolves with each new project.

How do you handle creative blocks?

Creative blocks can be challenging, but I’ve learned to see them as part of the process. When I hit a block, I try to step back and give myself space to recharge. Sometimes, that means taking a break, exploring nature, or immersing myself in other activities. Experimentation is also vital; I play around with new materials or techniques without the pressure of creating a finished piece. This playful approach often sparks new ideas and helps me overcome the block.

What projects or themes are you excited to explore next?

I’m excited to delve deeper into the relationship between organic forms and synthetic materials. There’s a fascinating tension there that I want to explore further. I’m also interested in creating larger-scale installations that allow viewers to immerse themselves in the work. These projects will continue to push the boundaries of my current style, incorporating new elements and themes that challenge me.