Dyanna explores the human relationship with the natural world.
Dyanna's work features a balance of natural visual elements and man-made materials, with items like sun-bleached plastic and vintage paper serving as the foundation for many of her pieces. These materials act as visual inspiration whether they make it into the finished piece or not. Dyanna captures a snapshot of her environment through carefully selected materials. She keeps a balance between a pleasant abstract aesthetic with muted natural colors and less refined materials. Dyanna's use of these materials reflects the intrusion of man-made objects into our natural environment and the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world.
Dyanna’s signature lexicon of saw blade waves represents the interplay between the harshness of the industrial and the organic softness of the natural world. Water symbolizes hope in a land of drought and fire, while playful colors and shapes make difficult issues like the climate crisis, vanity, race, and societal norms more digestible. The unnatural materials and colors represent the complexity and long lasting impact of humanity on our environment.
Dyanna's newest body of work builds upon her exploration of the natural world, focusing specifically on Moods of the Sea and the horizon. Drawing inspiration from observation, she depicts the ebb and flow of currents, movement and shifts in water and waves. Dyanna captures the moods of the sea by using color variation, layers, and repetitive marks and strokes. Through her expressive portrayal of water, she invites the viewer to contemplate the beauty of our natural surroundings and the impact we have on it. She also brings life to the water. It is often the main subject in the painting.
Our horizon represents infinite possibility, perspective and the boundary between the known and unknown. When represented, it changes with each piece to influence the viewer. When the sky and sea dominate, it evokes a sense of openness, freedom, or insignificance of human existence. A low horizon might emphasize groundedness, offering stability, calm or intimacy. Sometimes it's non-existent, bringing focus to the abstract objects. The horizon creates a dialogue between what is seen and known by us and what is imagined.
Dyanna aims to connect us more to our environment. Her work is a reflection of her deep respect for the natural world and serves as a reminder of the interconnection of all life and the profound impact water has on our planet and ourselves.
