Meet Dallen Taylor | Cross-Disciplinary Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dallen Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dallen, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
“Work-life balance, huh? Well, let’s just say it’s been a bit of a tightrope walk for me. Running a video production company full-time while also trying to make music and pursue my hobby of rug-tufting can be a bit of a juggling act. But hey, if you can’t handle the heat, stay out of the craft room, am I right?

In all seriousness though, over time I’ve learned to prioritize and make the most of my time. I make sure to schedule in time for both work and play, and I’ve come to realize that they can actually complement each other. For example, working with musicians through my video production company gives me inspiration for my music, and I find that my love for music helps me to be more creative in my work. And when it comes to rug-tufting, well that’s just a great way to relax and destress after a long day.

I think the key is to find balance in the things you love and make time for all of them. I started scheduling some rug tufting time in between video editing sessions, & it was a game changer. And if all else fails, just remember, if you’re not multitasking, you’re not living.”

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When it comes to my art, I like to think of myself as a bit of a chameleon. I’ve been fortunate enough to have a successful career in video production, working with some amazing musicians and helping businesses tell their stories through film. But my true passion has always been music. Growing up, my best friend Silas and I would make music together under the name ‘Dallen & Silas.’ It was a blast, and it’s where I fell in love with the process of creating and storytelling through song.

Now, I’m excited to announce that I’m shifting gears and diving back into the music scene. My approach to music is a little different than most. I like to think of it as a form of romanticism. I find the beauty in the little moments of life and try to translate that into my music. I guess you could call it ‘indie-pop with a touch of romance.’

It hasn’t been an easy road, but I’ve learned a lot along the way. One of the biggest lessons is that you can’t be afraid to take risks. I wouldn’t be where I am today if I hadn’t taken a chance on video production, and now I’m excited to see where music takes me.

Overall, I want the world to know that I’m a storyteller at heart. Whether it’s through film or music, I’m always looking for new ways to connect with people and share my perspective on life. I hope my art can bring a little bit of magic and romance into people’s lives.”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d make sure they got the full Olympia experience. First things first, we’d start the day off at The Spar Cafe for some black coffee and a glass of whiskey (because let’s be real, I skip breakfast and go straight for the good stuff). The Spar has a rustic, cozy atmosphere and is surrounded by plants, making it the perfect spot to catch up over coffee. And if they’re feeling adventurous, they should definitely try the pancake breakfast.

If the weather’s nice, we’ll head to Thriftway to pick up some snacks for a picnic and people-watching session around Capital Lake. It’s a great way to take in the sights and sounds of Olympia, and maybe even spot a few local eccentricities (because let’s face it, Olympia is full of them).

Next up, we’ll hit Old School Pizza for some greasy, 80s-style pizza and a dose of punk rock nostalgia. The walls are covered in posters and you’ll probably hear the Dead Kennedys playing a little too loud, but that’s all part of the charm.

After all that eating, we’ll probably need to burn off some calories, so we’ll end the day with a little couch potato-ing, vegging out to some comfort shows like The Office or The Walking Dead. It’s the perfect way to end a day of good food, good company, and good memories.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to give a massive shoutout to my best friend Silas. We’ve been friends since we were kids and he’s been a huge influence on my career and my life in general. We used to make music together under the moniker ‘Dallen & Silas’ and it was through those early projects that I fell in love with the creative process. But the real game changer came when Silas gifted me my first camera. It was a simple gesture, but it completely changed the trajectory of my life. Without Silas, I wouldn’t be where I am today as a multimedia artist and video production company owner. He’s been my rock through the years and I’m forever grateful for his friendship and support.

Instagram: westcoastmob

Image Credits
Gracia Heilmer