Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniela Dohnert.
Hi Daniela, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My art business grew out of a lifelong passion for working with my hands. Ever since I was a child, I loved creating things. In my early teens, I imagined I might become a fashion designer. I even made a few skirts and dresses using my grandmother’s old sewing machine, which my friends and I proudly wore. But I soon realized that fashion wasn’t truly my path—I was far more drawn to color.
At first, I thought I wanted to be a painter. But once I entered art school, I discovered that while I deeply enjoyed painting and drawing, I was much more compelled by three-dimensional forms. I began exploring sculpture, working primarily with steel, fused glass, and found objects. After graduating, it became difficult to access the space and equipment needed to work with steel, so I focused almost exclusively on fused glass.
I love working with glass not only for its vibrant, luminous colors, but also because it demands intense focus. That deep attention becomes a form of meditation for me. When I moved to Florida, I continued creating fused glass bowls and plates, but I noticed that this region doesn’t have as much appreciation for functional glass objects. In response, I began painting again—this time on wood or MDF—so I could incorporate fused glass details and even bottle pieces directly onto the surface. This allowed me to blend my love of color, texture, and sculpture into a more accessible, expressive form of art.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road, the main struggle has been finding customers and places to showcase my work, it is somewhat easier now that I am painting, yet making a living as an artist is not easy. I recently joined a group of other artists and we share a studio facility. I am foreseeing that this will be a great move not only because of the shared experiences with others but also because as a group we can put together more opportunities to showcase our individual artwork.
Another struggle I have faced is being so emotionally invested in my creation that I take criticism of my work to heart.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I do abstract acrylic paintings on wood or mdf with fused glass attached to the surface as an addition or enhancement to the painting. I also continue experimenting with fused glass bowls and decorations. All my paintings are inspired by nature and its often bright colors. I am proud of my ability to incorporate different elements to the artwork and vary the style I paint in depending on the glass source I am using.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I do not see much changing in this industry in the coming years, there will probably be some interaction with AI and those who adapt to it quicker will benefit. Perhaps the demand will also shift toward more affordable pieces as the markets fluctuate.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.danielad-art.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/Daniela_dohnert_art
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/danifusedglass
