Meet Dana Todd Pope | Artist, Author, & Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dana Todd Pope and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dana, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I had no choice. It is a calling. I was literally waking up in the middle of the night, in cold sweats, feeling an overwhelming need to paint. Every time I tried to pursue a more “practical” career path, it felt like work. I was miserable. Art…creating, is something that comes naturally to me. It never feels like work but, like a privilege.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I took the long way here. I don’t have an art degree or fancy pedigree. I got here from passion and a fearless approach to learning. I firmly believe in failing forward. Every time you try something new and it doesn’t work out as planned, take inventory. What did you learn? What about it did work? What changes can be made to allow it to run more smoothly. When something fails it’s not the end of the road, it’s an opportunity to gain more information about how to make it work. Failing forward gives you confidence. It is essential to the process of creation.

My brand Fearlessly Hue, now available on the Walmart Marketplace, is all about going after your biggest dreams. For children, I want them to know they can accomplish anything they set out to do. For adults, I want them to get back in touch with the dreamer inside of them. What’s that thing you feel it’s too late to go after? Go for it, we believe in you.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
So, this is a true story. My friend LaGina visited Chicago about a month ago. I took her on a tour of the South Side of Chicago as I see it. The media often demonizes the South Side. I wanted to show the her the places that make it special. We went to art galleries, Black-owned restaurants, and a house music day party at the Stony Island Arts Bank. All without incident. She loved it!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There were so many along the way. So many artists who poured into me. Although I am greatful for them, the person I want to shout out my mother, Geneva Todd. She has been my biggest supporter from day one. Her support came with some reluctance and doubt, but it was still unwavering. I could not be here without her.

Website: www.fearlesslyhue.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/danatoddpope

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/danatoddpope

Twitter: www.twitter.com/danatoddpope

Facebook: www.facebook.com/danatoddpopefineart

Other: Www.fearlesslyhue.com