Dianna Cates Dunn

As an artist rooted in the realm of abstraction, my work has evolved to embrace what I like to call abstract realism. This approach allows viewers to recognize familiar or 'real' elements within a piece, though excessive details are intentionally withheld. Exaggerated colors, forms, and patterns are present, yet they remain open to interpretation. I do, however, still oscillate between pure abstraction and abstract realism, depending on my mood.

When choosing subject matter, if my muse finds herself unusually quiet, I embark on new abstract pieces with a sense of fun and playfulness. My aim is to let a relaxed, joyful, and unique spirit infuse each painting.

What captivates me in a particular scene is often a compelling emotion or story. Additionally, strong lines and intriguing compositional design elements can spur my desire to create.

I am an emotional painter who works from "the inside out." Before putting paint to panel, my emotions and feelings must be stimulated. My muse—yes, I do have one—speaks with a voice that encapsulates the wonderful creativity of my ancestors.

My technique is marked by a number of unique aspects:
1. I individually paint and create collage papers, which often find their way into my works.
2. Most ...

BIBLIOGRAPHY
2016 The Truths of Tula - A Muse and Her Artist
Published by DCDDesign,LLC
2015 Twin Cities TOSCA, Colorado artist of the year
2011 Luxe Magazine - 'Scene' section in the winter
ed.
2008 Art Buzz - The 2008 Edition, edited by Alan Rowe
2004 The Art of Layering: Making Connections, Published by the Society of Layerists in Multi-Media, by Mary Carroll Nelson and Nancy Dunaway
2004 American Art Collector. A juried competition of new work, Edited byTom Palmer

2023 Local Relic Solo, Colorado Springs, CO
2021 Kreuser Fine Arts, Colorado Springs, CO
2019 Kreuser Fine Arts, Colorado Springs, CO
2018 Jane Hamilton Fine Arts, Tucson, AZ
2015Colorado Springs Art Guild, 1st place/
paintings
2014 & 2019 JUROR: “Symph
ony in Color”, Palmer Lake, CO
2014 “Fantasies, Visions & Dreams”, Palmer Lake, CO
2014 “Solon des Refuses” Loveland, CO
2012-2013 “Butterflies and Friends” Colorado Springs, CO
2009 “Essential Layers” Solo show, Gallery Two-Ten, Co. Spgs., CO
2007 “Hot Nights, Cool Art”, Cottonwood Gallery, Colorado Springs, CO
2006 “Colorado Springs Art Guild”, Business of Art, Manitou, CO, juried
2005 “Watermedia XIV International” UCCS Fine Arts, Colorado Springs,
CO
2005 “Northern Colorado Artist Show” Fort Collins, CO, juried
2004 “Evergreen Contemporary Art Show”, Evergreen, CO, juried