Today we’d like to introduce you to Dani Fearon.
Dani, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I rooted in rural Maine and grew into a people pupil! As a kid, I was a lot like I am now, busy and smiling through all the ups and downs. I gravitate toward anything art related, hands-on, engaging, and fun. I like to explore and play. Some of the things that inspire me every day are nature, family and community, creativity, and healing.
My siblings paved the way for me really, they broke all the rules before my time and left me with a lot of freedom and the coolest hand-me-downs. Early art experiences that I can remember were mostly utilitarian, holiday decorations, wool socks and mittens, baskets, rugs, pillows, etc. I got really into craft kits, hair wraps, friendship bracelets, beads, gimp! I loved going to yard sales, collecting all kinds of treasures with money I earned collecting bottles or babysitting.
My parents work in building houses, farming, and dental hygiene also gave me access to a ton of raw materials and tools which always fascinated me. Looking back, I was around so many innovative people! As the baby of my family, I was aware of all kinds of life stuff early on. All the experiences consciously or subconsciously sway me. I love to analyze and make connections thanks to my Nana, who pioneered techniques in family counseling, substance abuse and recovery.
My Nana married the beloved Louis and together they created a big, bold, and beautifully blended Irish, French, and Filipino family. Lots of people, lots of personalities, lots of stories! As the matriarch of my family, Nana is a devout Catholic, a tomboy at heart, always up for a good debate, and loves chaos. She taught me that I don’t have to fit into any one box.
When I was seven, I lost an aunt to suicide. She was my Dad’s only sister, a veteran, and a member of the LGBTQ community. I knew she was in recovery and had relapsed before taking her own life but, my limited understanding left me devastated. I learned about the power of love, acceptance, and seeking help. I became more curious about mental health and pathology. I became an ally. I observe my parents who continue to work hard separately and as a team. They are high-school sweethearts who choose to stick together no matter what, can you even believe that?!
Together they have taught me about relationship, humor, responsibility, reputation vs. character, hard work, skilled craftsmanship, and of course rhythm and blues. Through them I learned about quality over quantity, to respect and appreciate nature, to know where my food comes from, and to support small businesses as much as possible. I was aware of those who had less, those who had more, and I began to understand my many privileges.
Lucky for me, artists and musicians from all around travel to Maine and share their talents. Especially during the summertime, there are a lot of shows, fairs, and festivals. It was in creative spaces that I got to see more cultural diversity and I always left inspired and wanting more. Heavily influenced by my own curiosities, all things 1990’s, and my sister’s glorious Tupac Shakur poster, I became determined to leave my small town as soon as possible.
While in high school, I studied with a local silversmith and started a jewelry business which I called Dani Designs. I applied to MassArt and was accepted early with my jewelry portfolio. In college, I got to try all different types of art processes, access amazing studios, and form lifelong friendships. Though I was in heaven making art and learning, I accumulated a lot of student debt and I really had no plans for my future. I endured tough critiques that my work was inconsistent, unfinished, and sometimes just not “good” enough.
I struggled with feeling insecure, making a cohesive body of work, and wanting to better understand my identity as an artist. After graduating with a BFA, I was floundering. My lease was up, I was burnt out at my job, my health had gone downhill, and I was lost on what to do next. I moved back to Maine after being in Boston for six years. I got a job working at a family shelter which was my first job focused on helping others. I got utilize and understand my skill set and I got to use art and play to connect with children and families.
I started to focus more on the art processes and the materials I used, rather than the results. This changed everything! I gave more control to the material and felt a great freedom in that. I realized I use art to process all that life stuff and the healing comes from gaining a better understanding and releasing energy into the work. There is something powerful about making something truly unique and making the intangible more tangible.
I was inspired to continue my education by my sister who has a master’s degree in social work and my sister-in-law who has a Ph.D. I considered sociology, psychology, social work, occupational therapy, and eventually found art therapy! I applied to Lesley University and was accepted! Now, here I am! As an art therapist, I want to provide the space for others to explore, process, and begin healing.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There are always obstacles and challenges but, I try to celebrate all the small victories along the way.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about AKA Dani Sunshine AKA Dani Designs – what should we know?
My work is in mental health counseling, bodywork, energy work, and art therapy. My specialty is making genuine connections with people, bringing positivity and laughter, and having lots of ideas.
I work at FeitheOg Massage Therapy, a locally owned business in West Roxbury. I am also thrilled to be joining the St. Stephens Youth Program this fall, working for equality in education, employment, and opportunity!
–https://feitheog.com/
–http://www.ssypboston.org/
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Everyone I mentioned in my story deserves credit. Everyone that has ever encouraged me to keep pushing forward. My chosen family! My dogs! My loving boyfriend! My yogis and my therapists! My mentors and professors! My cohort & AT squad!
Contact Info:
- Phone: 207-299-4966
- Email: dani.fearon@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/queendlicious/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dani.fearon
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
